Rain forecast for the first week of May can be expected to cause water levels to rise significantly in the Ottawa River.
Rainfall forecast for today could raise levels to what were reached last week. Additional rain forecast to fall this week can be expected to at least maintain levels and possibly cause further increases.around Lac Deschene, at Petrie Island and at Boise Village, east of Cumberland.
Within the Rideau watershed, levels will increase but no flooding issues are expected at this time with the exception of Bobs and Christie Lakes which have continued to have high levels since the freshet peak on April 7. Levels are expected to increase as a result of the rain this week.
With water levels increasing again, residents need to be aware of the associated dangers. Children need to be kept away from ditches, streams, lakes and rivers.
Conservation Authority staff will continue to monitor conditions and will issue updates as warranted.
For water level and flow information in the Rideau system as well as the Ottawa River, visit the RVCA Streamflows and Water Levels webpage.
For more information about conditions on the Ottawa River, also check the webpage of the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board.
RVCA Watershed Conditions Statements:
- Water Safety – High flows, unstable banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
- Flood Outlook – Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts, calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams and/or lakeshore flooding or erosion.
- Flood Watch – Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individuals in flood prone areas should prepare.
- Flood Warning – Flooding is imminent or already occurring in area watercourses.