A “perfect storm” of rising temperatures and incoming rain is putting several southern Ontario regions on high alert. After a frigid start to the year, the sudden thaw is overwhelming local watersheds that are still struggling with frozen ground and thick river ice.
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Local Conservation Authorities have flagged the following regions through February 20, 2026:
- Grand River (Kitchener-Waterloo to Brantford): Currently under a Flood Warning. The primary concern is ice jams, which can cause water levels to spike unpredictably.
- London & Thames River: A Flood Outlook is active. While major reservoirs are being used to catch the runoff, low-lying floodplains are expected to see significant water.
- Halton & GTA West: Advisories are in place for urban areas where poor drainage and clogged storm drains could lead to street-level flooding.
The Three Main Hazards
- The “Concrete” Ground: Because the soil is still frozen solid, it cannot absorb the melting snow. This creates massive amounts of surface runoff.
- Ice Jams: Heavy river ice is breaking apart and clogging narrow passages or bridges, acting like a temporary dam that pushes water into residential areas.
- Unstable Banks: Riverbanks are currently saturated and highly unstable. Residents—especially those with pets or children—are urged to keep a safe distance from all watercourses.
Homeowner Checklist
- Clear the Drains: Ensure the storm grate on your street is free of ice and debris to give meltwater a place to go.
- Sump Pump Test: Verify your pump is working and that the discharge pipe isn’t frozen or blocked.
- Valuables: If you live in a known floodplain, consider moving sensitive items out of your basement for the next 72 hours.
