Residents in parts of southern Ontario are being alerted about possible flooding as warmer weather leads to melting snow and ice following weeks of freezing temperatures.
The Grand River Conservation Authority, which includes Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, and Brantford, has issued a flood warning until Thursday. Officials indicate that melting snow along with anticipated rain could lead to a rapid increase in water levels.
They also mention that the weakening and breaking up of ice in rivers might create ice jams, which can obstruct water flow and cause localized flooding.
The Halton Conservation Authority, responsible for Oakville, Burlington, and Milton, warns that low-lying areas, natural floodplains, and regions with poor drainage are likely to experience flooding.
Officials from Halton Conservation highlight that the combination of melting snow and forecasted rain on Wednesday has previously led to significant flooding and ice jams.
The Catfish Creek Conservation Authority, covering a small area south of London, is also cautioning about increased water flow due to rising temperatures; however, they do not expect any flooding at this time.
All three conservation authorities urge the public to be extremely careful around waterways. Fast-moving currents and higher water levels make rivers and creeks particularly hazardous right now.
These safety advisories follow a record-setting storm in late January that covered southern Ontario with snow. Much of this snow lingered due to one of the longest cold spells seen in a decade.
Last year saw an unusually snowy February across Ontario and Quebec followed by a sudden temperature rise that caused flooding in lower areas like many basements.
At that time, the Insurance Bureau of Canada reported that the storm along with resulting floods led to over $160 million in insured damages.
This report by The Canadian Press was first Feb. 16, 2026.
Kathryn Mannie, The Canadian Press
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