The Grand River Conservation Authority has issued a flood warning for Kitchener and West Montrose, and a flood watch for New Hamburg and Ayr, following heavy rainfall that began on April 13, 2026. The warnings, which took effect on April 15, 2026, remain in place until 12 p.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026.
The region has already received 20 to 50 mm of rain, with an additional 20 mm expected through Thursday. Environment Canada has also issued a special weather statement for the Waterloo Region, warning that further rain and potential thunderstorms could lead to pooling water on roads and in low-lying areas. The increased moisture, combined with significant snowmelt from this past winter, has caused river levels to rise significantly across the watershed.
In response to the rising water, the conservation authority is actively using its reservoirs to manage the flow and reduce the risk of flooding in downstream areas. Municipal flood coordinators in the City of Kitchener and Township of Woolwich have been advised to monitor local conditions and notify residents in affected areas.
A water safety message remains in effect for the rest of the Grand River watershed where active warnings are not yet in place. Residents are strongly urged to stay away from all rivers, streams, and waterbodies. The banks are described as very slippery, and the cold, fast-moving water creates dangerous conditions for anyone nearby.
