Flood Warning issued for lower Ottawa River due to forecasted rainfall

Residents living in areas along the Lower Ottawa River from Arnprior to Hawkesbury have been issued a flood warning by the Ottawa River Regulating Committee due to the forecasted significant rainfall from Saturday, April 29 through Tuesday, May 3.

The runoff from this rain event is expected to bring additional water volumes to the Ottawa River, which is already near major flood thresholds.

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee is currently managing principal reservoirs to reduce river flows to downstream areas. However, they anticipate that water levels along the main stem of the Ottawa River will rise again next week, possibly exceeding major flood thresholds.

Multiple streets, lawns, and houses in low-lying areas could be affected by rainfall runoff. Flood-prone areas at Chats Lake, Constance Bay area, Britannia/Lac Deschênes, Cumberland, City of Clarence-Rockland, Township of Alfred Plantagenet, and other vulnerable areas down to Montreal are expected to be affected.

The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, South Nation Conservation, and Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry have identified specific areas of concern where water levels are expected to rise early next week.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and take necessary measures.

It’s advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

Residents in flood prone or low-lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should take the necessary precautions to protect their property. Please ensure:

• Sump pump is clear, in good working condition and has a backwater valve on it.
• Easy access to portable backup generator and pump.
• Downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 m from the dwelling.
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase.

As of Friday, April 28th, 2023, water levels are currently expected to remain well below historical flood levels of 2019 on the main stem of the Ottawa River. However, the situation remains fluid, and the public is advised to stay informed and take all necessary precautions to keep themselves and their property safe.