WCDR bracing for second Ottawa River peak

WEST CARLETON – While Ottawa River levels through West Carleton have slowly been falling, West Carleton Disaster Relief (WCDR) says the danger isn’t over and residents should prepare for the dreaded second peak.

Today’s (April 29) water level sits at 60.10 metres — 10 inches (25 centimetres) below the 2023 flood peak and holding in a stable range,” WCDR volunteers released in a statement today. “The three-day forecast keeps levels flat at 60.10 m through April 30 before a modest rise to 60.15 m on May 1. Steady, but not something to take lightly; a second pulse from upstream is still expected and we are keeping a close eye on what the river has in store.”

While WCDR volunteers have scaled back operations, they are still available 24 hours a day.

“The Constance Bay community centre (262 Len Purcell Dr.) operations centre and volunteer table are running, though staffing may vary throughout the day,” WCDR said. “If the office is quiet when you stop by, the duty officer’s number is posted on the front door. Reach us any time at flood@westcarletonrelief.ca or leave a message at 613-447-4446 — someone will get back to you promptly.”

Meanwhile, the WCDR says don’t sit on your laurels during this potentially brief reprieve.

“If your property hasn’t been affected yet, the forecast nudge upward toward May 1 is worth paying attention to,” the WCDR said. “This is the time to test your sump pump, run your generator to confirm it starts, and make sure your utility shutoffs are clear and easy to reach. Ten minutes of preparation now could spare you a very difficult night later.”

A supply of pre-made sandbags is staged and ready at the Constance Bay community centre.

“A significant rise will trigger a new call for volunteer fillers,” WCDR said. “We’ll (announce it) here the moment that’s needed.”

Showers are available at two West Carleton locations including:

• Constance Bay community centre — one shower open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Erskine Johnston Arena (3832 Carp Rd.) — showers open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Clean water remains available at the rear door of the Constance Bay community centre. Drive around to the back entrance and fill your containers from the hose — no need to get out of your vehicle.

WCDR continues to solicit donations to support flood relief efforts.

“Between peaks is when your support matters most; keeping supplies stocked, helping residents recover, and making sure WCDR is ready for whatever comes next,” the volunteer organization said. “Every dollar stays right here in West Carleton.”

To donate, volunteer, or request assistance, all in one place, visit the WCDR’s website ottawaflood.ca. You can reach the organization by email at flood@westcarletonrelief.ca or by phone at 613-447-4446.

The Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) expects the waters to rise again in the coming days as well.

“Water levels and flows along the main stem of the Ottawa River continue to rise slowly from Mattawa to Pembroke, while they are stable or slightly declining between Lake Coulonge and Carillon,” the ORRPB released in a statement today (April 29). “In Mattawa, water levels are expected to exceed the major flood level today. Snowmelt is increasing in the northern part of the basin, sending more spring runoff downstream. The rainfall that began yesterday (April 28) is leading to increased runoff from the northern and central parts of the basin, with volumes depending on how much additional rain falls and where.  This is expected to lead to water levels and flows increasing gradually in all locations over the next few days.”

The rate of snowmelt in the northern portion of the basin and the potential for rainfall over the coming weeks remain uncertain.

“As a result, in the coming weeks, a second flood peak remains possible from Pembroke to the Montreal region,” the ORRPB said. “A rapid melt combined with rainfall could lead to water levels higher than those observed between April 19 and 22 in all locations.”

Lake Deschenes at Brittania measured at 60.1 m today and is forecast to hit 60.2 m by May 2. Chats Lake at Arnprior measured at 75.65 m today and is expected to reach 75.75 m by May 2.