Low water conditions across the Rideau Valley watershed have improved following a return to normal seasonal rainfall and snowfall over recent months. 

The RVCA first declared a Level 3, or severe, low water status in August 2025 due to significant rainfall deficits and high temperatures. RVCA received numerous reports of dry or low-yielding private wells as groundwater systems reached new record lows, and staff observed severely low water levels and zero-flow conditions in many local rivers and streams. Seasonal rainfall and temperatures returned in October–November, supporting partial recovery across the watershed, though conditions remained below normal into late November.

Monitoring data now indicates widespread recovery in groundwater levels, with most sites now within their normal seasonal range. Short-term and seasonal precipitation indicators have returned to near-average conditions, and streamflows across the watershed have recovered to normal ranges. Based on these indicators, watershed conditions are considered to have returned to a “Normal” state.

Groundwater recharge has been supported by milder winter temperatures, allowing recent rainfall and snowmelt to effectively infiltrate soils. No reports of dry wells have been received in recent months, suggesting recovery from impacts observed during the summer. While conditions have improved, residents relying on private wells are still encouraged to continue using water efficiently to support localized recharge.

Conditions in the upper watershed reservoirs have also improved, supporting recovery in the Tay River and Upper Rideau reaches. Water levels and flows are responding to recent winter precipitation and snowpack conditions, and are expected to continue trending toward typical seasonal ranges in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead, current forecasts indicate that January precipitation is likely to help maintain these improved conditions and support continued seasonal stability across the watershed.