MVCA ends Ottawa River flood warning

(Editor’s note: As we did during the 2017 flood, 2018 tornado, 2019 flood and COVID-19 pandemic, we are making our coverage of potential extreme flooding in 2023 free access to our entire community providing flooding updates, on-site coverage, important information and resources to West Carleton and beyond, so those outside the area can also better understand what is happing in our rural community)

WEST CARLETON – The Ottawa River flood warning is officially over.

“The flood warning for the Ottawa River issued on May 10, has been downgraded to a water safety statement,” Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) water resources technologist Jennifer North released in a statement today (May 18). “Water levels along the Lower Ottawa River from Gatineau to the Grenville/Hawkesbury area are expected to continue decreasing over the coming days.”

Based on Ottawa River Regulating Committee (ORRC) forecasts, Ottawa River water levels are declining, and the rate of decline is slowing as they reach normal summer targets. There is no snow remaining in the watershed and reservoirs are now targeting summer levels. No significant rain is forecasted for the next couple of days.

“Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable, North said. “Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children.”

The Mississippi Valley, Rideau Valley, and South Nation conservation authorities monitor water levels and weather forecasts with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry as part of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.

This water safety statement will remain in effect until Thursday, June 1 at 5 p.m. No further updates will be issued unless forecasted levels or conditions change.

For more information regarding the Ottawa River, visit www.ottawariver.ca.

To view current flood warnings across Ontario, visit: www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.