Heavy rain, frozen ground increases flood risk
Posted Mar 16, 2025 10:03:59 AM.
Last Updated Mar 16, 2025 10:04:04 AM.
Warm temperatures and heavy rain are increasing the flood risk in the Ottawa area.
At approximately 3 a.m. Sunday, Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for Ottawa-North, Kanata and Orléans.
“Rainfall expected today. The frozen ground has a reduced ability to absorb this rainfall,” the statement reads.
Beginning in the morning and lasting into the evening, the city could see total rainfall amounts between 10 and 20 mm. Thunderstorms are also expected.
The high for Sunday is 18 C but southwest winds gusting up to 70 km/h are expected to bring in a cold front with the low Sunday night reaching -1 C.
As much of the ground is still frozen, there is the possibility of localized flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads are possible.
The Rideau River Conservation Authority has issued a flood watch for the Rideau River.
“Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare,” the flood index states.
Rainfall is expected to stop Sunday night.
