Residents in Brantford are being advised of an increased risk of flooding as seasonal conditions become favourable for higher runoff caused by rapid snowmelt and rainfall, which can be exacerbated by ice jams.
On January 6, the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) issued a Flood Watch and Flood Outlook Statement for Brantford, citing mild and wet weather expected to affect the watershed later this week as active weather systems move through the area.
The GRCA and the City of Brantford are urging residents and property owners—particularly those located near the Grand River—to be prepared for the possibility of flooding.
The City notes that an online mapping tool is available for informational purposes to help residents determine whether a property is located within a floodplain or flood zone.
Property owners in flood-prone areas are also encouraged to have an emergency plan in place and to ensure quick access to essential belongings should an evacuation become necessary.
Residents are advised to monitor updates through official City of Brantford and GRCA communication channels.
Flood notifications from the GRCA are available by subscription at grandriver.ca/subscribe, while City updates can be received by registering at Brantford.ca/subscribe.
Officials are also warning of hazardous conditions along the banks of the Grand River and local creeks, noting that slippery surfaces and fast-moving, cold water pose a serious safety risk.
Parents are being urged to keep children and pets away from riverbanks.
If flooding occurs, some roads, trails and pathways may be closed.
Residents are advised to obey posted signage and avoid water-covered areas.
The City says it is prepared to respond if emergency conditions develop and will continue working with partner agencies to assess evolving conditions.
Additional information on flood preparedness is available at Brantford.ca/Flooding and through the GRCA at grandriver.ca.
