A flood warning now covers New Hamburg, Ayr, and West Montrose after Saturday’s rain and mild temperatures triggered snowmelt, pushing local river levels higher.

Warning Details and Watershed Outlook

The Grand River Conservation Authority activated the flood warning at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. Meanwhile, the broader Grand River watershed—from Dundalk in the north to Lake Erie in the south, encompassing Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County—remains under a flood watch.

Air temperatures will stay above freezing through Wednesday, according to the warning. The area received 15 to 30 mm of rain from Friday through Saturday afternoon.

The northern watershed’s snowpack holds substantial water content. Warm conditions paired with intermittent heavy rain are driving snowmelt and heightened runoff, officials note.

Risk Levels and Hazards

Ayr, New Hamburg, and West Montrose currently face level one flood risk. New Hamburg and Ayr may escalate to level two on Sunday.

Ice persists on several rivers, including the Grand River, raising the potential for ice jams. High flows and unstable ice elevate dangers near rivers and streams across the watershed. Officials urge extreme caution around local waterways.

Wilmot Township has notified New Hamburg residents of the flood warning, recommending close monitoring of conditions over the weekend.

Weather Forecast

Environment Canada issued a yellow rain warning for much of Saturday across Waterloo region, Guelph, and Wellington County. Saturday night brings more rain and possible thunderstorms, with snow and freezing drizzle likely early Sunday morning.