Flood warning issued for WC riverside communities

WEST CARLETON – The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) changed the flood watch to a flood warning along the lower Ottawa River saying water levels could rise 25 centimetres in the Constance Bay area by this weekend.

“This flood warning upgrades the flood watch issued April 25, for areas along the lower Ottawa River, Arnprior to Hawkesbury,” MVCA water resources technologist Jennifer North released in a statement today (May 1). “Water levels and flows have been steadily rising along the Ottawa River due to recent rainfall combined with ongoing snowmelt in the northern basin. Additional increases are expected over the coming days, with further rain and meltwater forecast.”

According to the Ottawa River Regulation Secretariat, flood-prone areas from Arnprior to Hawkesbury remain at risk. 

“Current forecasts suggest that water levels on the main Ottawa River will remain 55 to 80 cm below the 2019 historic flood levels, and below 2023 peak levels,” North said.

The Ottawa River through Constance Bay is expected to take a big jump starting tomorrow (May 2).

“Water levels are expected to rise (about) 25 cm by the weekend,” North said. “This remains about 35 cm below the 2023 peak. Flooding of low-lying properties, roads and shoreline structures is possible.”

Other areas along the lower Ottawa River expecting high water include:

• Pembroke to Britannia: Minor flood levels have been exceeded, with potential for major flooding in some locations starting Friday (May 2).
• Gatineau (Hull Marina) to Hawkesbury: Minor flood thresholds have been exceeded; peak levels are expected to stay below major flood limits.

“Elevated water levels are forecast to persist beyond May 5, with an updated statement to follow,” North said. “This advisory includes flood-prone locations such as Lake Coulonge, Chats Lake, Britannia/Lac Deschênes, Pointe-Gatineau, Cumberland, Clarence-Rockland, and Hawkesbury.”

• Britannia (Grandview Road, Belltown Community): Expected rise of  around 30 cm by weekend, about 15 cm below 2023 levels. Low-lying yards, parks, and roads may experience localized flooding.
• East of Cumberland Village (Boisé Village, Morin Road, Léo Lane): Anticipated rise of around 25 cm by weekend, about 75 cm below 2023 peaks. Potential access issues along Boisé Lane; residents should prepare for restricted road access.
• Clarence-Rockland (Voisine Road and Old Highway 17): Forecasted increase of about 30 cm by weekend, around 35 cm below 2023 levels. Low-lying areas near the river and some municipal roads may experience water on the roadway; residents should secure property and monitor updates.
• Hawkesbury: Expected rise of around 20 cm by weekend, around 25 cm below 2023 peaks. Shoreline properties, parks, and some access roads could be affected.

Forecasted increases are relative to water levels measured as of 8 a.m., May 1.

“These projections depend on the rate of remaining snowmelt in the upper Ottawa River watershed and the amount of rainfall received over the coming days,” North said. “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 metres from the dwelling.
• Driveway culverts are clear of debris and drain well.
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase.

The Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, and South Nation conservation authorities continue to monitor conditions alongside the Ministry of Natural Resources and under Ontario’s Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.

For current Ottawa River conditions and forecasts, visit: https://ottawariver.ca/conditions/.

For provincial flood warnings, visit: www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.

This flood warning is in effect until May 5, at 5 p.m.