Update #2

Flood Watch - Lower Ottawa River

April 25, 2025 — This FLOOD WATCH statement is an update to the Flood Watch Statement issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on April 25^th, 2025.

The Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) advises that weather events, particularly those bringing warmer temperatures and heavy rainfall, could cause water levels and flows to exceed minor flood thresholds in some areas along the Lower Ottawa River beginning Saturday, April 26^th, 2025.

Water levels and flows have been gradually increasing along the main stem of the Ottawa River. Levels and flows are expected to increase over the next week due to forecasted rainfall Friday into Saturday, combined with increased spring runoff from snow melt in the northern region of the Ottawa River Basin.

From Pembroke to Britannia, minor flood levels will likely be exceeded starting Saturday with major flood levels being exceeded in some locations Monday to Friday.

From Gatineau (Hull Marina) to Hawkesbury, minor flood levels will likely be exceeded starting Monday to Tuesday, with peak levels likely exceeding minor flood levels Thursday to Friday and expected to remain below major flood levels.

The minor flood level is defined as the level at which parts of some streets, lawns and parks are beginning to flood, with no or few houses/buildings being affected.

The major flood level is defined as the level at which one or several streets are beginning to flood, with several houses/buildings or neighbourhoods being affected.

Water levels are currently expected to remain well below historical flood levels on the main stem of the Ottawa River. 

This advisory includes flood-prone areas at Lake Coulonge, Chats Lake, Britannia / Lac Deschênes,
Pointe-Gatineau, Cumberland, City of Clarence-Rockland, and other vulnerable areas down to Hawkesbury.

These results are dependent on the amount of rainfall received. Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions by consulting the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board Current Conditions page (https://ottawariver.ca/conditions/) and to take necessary measures.

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 m from the dwelling.
• Driveway culverts are clear of debris and drain well.
• Securing items that might float away as flows increase.

Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

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

This FLOOD WATCH STATEMENT is in effect until April 28^th, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority
Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resources Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
www.mvc.on.ca

Definitions:

• Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers, and swimmers but flooding is not expected.

• Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.

• Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
  Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.
  
  

• end —

Mise à jour n° 2
Veille de crue - Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

25 avril 2025 — Le présent avis de VEILLE DE CRUE est une mise à jour de l'avis de Veille de crue émis pour les régions situées le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury) le 25 avril 2025.

La Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais (CPRRO) avise que des conditions météorologiques, notamment des températures plus chaudes et de fortes précipitations, pourraient faire en sorte que les niveaux et les débits d'eau dépassent les seuils mineurs d'inondation dans certaines zones du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais à compter du samedi 26 avril 2025.

Les niveaux et les débits ont augmenté progressivement le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais. Ils devraient continuer à augmenter au cours de la semaine prochaine en raison des précipitations prévues vendredi et samedi, combinées à l'augmentation du ruissellement printanier dû à la fonte des neiges dans le nord du bassin de la rivière des Outaouais.

De Pembroke à Britannia, les seuils mineurs d'inondation seront probablement dépassés à partir
de samedi, et les seuils majeurs d'inondation seront dépassés à certains endroits entre lundi
et vendredi.

De Gatineau (marina de Hull) à Hawkesbury, les seuils mineurs d'inondation seront probablement dépassés entre lundi et mardi, et les niveaux maximaux devraient dépasser les seuils mineurs d'inondation entre jeudi et vendredi, mais rester en dessous des seuils majeurs d'inondation.

Le seuil mineur d'inondation est défini comme le niveau auquel certaines parties de rues, pelouses et parcs commencent à être inondées, sans que cela n'affecte ou n'affecte que très peu de maisons/bâtiments.

Le seuil majeur d'inondation est défini comme le niveau auquel une ou plusieurs rues commencent à être inondées, affectant plusieurs maisons/bâtiments ou quartiers.

On prévoit actuellement que les niveaux d'eau resteront bien en deçà des niveaux historiques d'inondation le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais.

Cet avis concerne les zones inondables du lac Coulonge, du lac des Chats, de Britannia / Lac Deschênes, de Pointe-Gatineau, de Cumberland, de la Cité de Clarence-Rockland et d'autres zones vulnérables
jusqu'à Hawkesbury.

Ces résultats dépendent de la quantité de pluie reçue. Les résidents des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l'évolution de la situation en consultant la page Conditions actuelles de la Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais (https://ottawariver.ca/conditions/) et à prendre les mesures nécessaires.

Les résidents des zones basses ou de zones régulièrement sujettes aux inondations doivent prendre les précautions nécessaires pour protéger leurs biens. Veuillez-vous assurer que :

• La pompe de puisard est dégagée, en bon état de fonctionnement et est munie d’un clapet anti-retour.
• Les descentes pluviales sont dégagées et leur sortie est située à au moins
  3 m du logement.
• L'accès au générateur de secours portable et à la pompe se fait facilement.
• Les ponceaux des allées sont exempts de débris et que l'eau s'écoule bien.
• Les objets qui pourraient flotter au fur et à mesure que le débit augmente sont sécurisés.

Il est conseillé aux résidents de rester à l'écart des cours d'eau où le débit est élevé et où les berges pourraient être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et de les surveiller de près à proximité des plans d'eau.

Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de
la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à
jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et
publiera des mises à jour sur l’état de la rivière sur son site Web tous les jours à https://rivieredesoutaouais.ca/previsions/

Pour consulter les avertissements d’inondation actuels en Ontario, visitez :

www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/fr/.    

Cette DÉCLARATION DE VEILLE DE CRUEest en vigueur jusqu’au 28 avril 2025 à 17 h 00.
Office de protection de la nature de la Vallée de la Mississippi
Contact : Jennifer North
Technologue en ressources hydriques
613-253-0006, poste 243
www.mvc.on.ca

Définitions :

• Énoncé sur les conditions de l’eau : Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts,
  de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme
  les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.

• Énoncé sur les conditions de l’eau : Risque de crue : préavis de crue possible basé sur
  des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.

• Veille de crue : possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.
  Les municipalités, les services d’urgence et les propriétaires fonciers des secteurs inondables
  doivent être prêts à intervenir.

• Avertissement de crue : crue imminente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et
  municipalités spécifiques

• fin —

Flood Watch - Lower Ottawa River - Update #1

April 25, 2025 — This FLOOD WATCH statement is an update to the Flood Watch Statement issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on April 23^rd, 2025.

The Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) warns that weather events, in particular events bringing increased temperatures and heavy rainfall, may lead to levels and flows exceeding minor flood levels in some locations along the Lower Ottawa River.

Water levels and flows have been gradually increasing along the main stem of the Ottawa River. Levels and flows are expected to continue to increase over the next week due to forecasted rainfall Friday into Saturday, combined with increased spring runoff from snow melt in the northern region of the Ottawa River Basin.

Minor flood levels may be exceeded in flood prone areas along the river between Lake Coulonge and Carillon (Pembroke to Hawkesbury) starting Saturday, April 26. The minor flood level is defined as the level at which parts of some streets, lawns and parks are beginning to flood, with no or few houses/buildings being affected.

This includes flood-prone areas at Lake Coulonge, Chats Lake, Britannia / Lac Deschênes, Pointe-Gatineau, Cumberland, City of Clarence-Rockland, and other vulnerable areas down to Hawkesbury.

There are currently no major flooding indicators of concern and the ORRPB forecasts that levels are expected to peak later next week based on current weather forecasts. Increases in water levels are expected to increase approximately 90 cm at Lake Coulonge to approximately 60 cm at Britannia when compared to levels observed at 4pm on April 24^th.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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 m 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 monitor water levels and weather forecasts with the Ministry of Natural Resources aspart of the Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates are provided as conditions change.

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

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

This FLOOD WATCH STATEMENT is in effect until May 21, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority
Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resources Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
www.mvc.on.ca

Definitions:

• Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers, and swimmers but flooding is not expected.

• Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.

• Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
  Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

end —

Mise à jour n° 1
Veille de crue - Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

25 avril 2025 — Le présent avis de VEILLE DE CRUE est une mise à jour concernant la Veille de crue émise le 23 avril 2025 pour les régions situées le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury).

La Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais (CPRRO) avertit que des phénomènes météorologiques, en particulier ceux qui entraînent une hausse des températures et de fortes précipitations, pourraient faire monter le niveau et le débit de la rivière des Outaouais au-delà des niveaux d'inondation mineure à certains endroits le long du cours inférieur de la rivière.

Les niveaux et les débits ont augmenté progressivement le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais. Ils devraient continuer à augmenter au cours de la semaine prochaine en raison des précipitations prévues vendredi et samedi, combinées à un ruissellement printanier accru dû à la fonte des neiges dans la région nord du bassin de la rivière des Outaouais.

Les seuils mineurs d'inondation pourraient être dépassés dans les zones inondables le long de la rivière entre le lac Coulonge et Carillon (de Pembroke à Hawkesbury) à partir du samedi 26 avril. Le seuil mineur d'inondation est défini comme le niveau auquel certaines rues, pelouses et parcs commencent à être inondés, sans qu'aucune ou presque aucune maison ou bâtiment ne soit touché.

Cela comprend les zones inondables du lac Coulonge, du lac des Chats, de Britannia / lac Deschênes, de Pointe-Gatineau, de Cumberland, de la Cité de Clarence-Rockland et d'autres zones vulnérables jusqu'à Hawkesbury.

Il n'y a actuellement aucun indicateur d'inondation majeure préoccupant et le CPRRO prévoit que les niveaux devraient atteindre leur maximum plus tard la semaine prochaine, selon les prévisions météorologiques actuelles. Les niveaux d'eau devraient augmenter d'environ 90 cm au lac Coulonge, et d'environ 60 cm à Britannia par rapport aux niveaux observés à 16 h le 24 avril.

Les résidents des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l'évolution de la situation et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de rester à l'écart des cours d'eau où le débit est élevé et où les berges pourraient être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et de les surveiller de près à proximité des plans d'eau.

Les résidents des zones basses ou de zones régulièrement sujettes aux inondations doivent prendre les précautions nécessaires pour protéger leurs biens. Veuillez-vous assurer que :

• La pompe de puisard est dégagée, en bon état de fonctionnement et est munie d’un clapet anti-retour.
• Les descentes pluviales sont dégagées et leur sortie est située à au moins
  3 m du logement.
• L'accès au générateur de secours portable et à la pompe se fait facilement.
• Les ponceaux des allées sont exempts de débris et que l'eau s'écoule bien.
• Les objets qui pourraient flotter au fur et à mesure que le débit augmente sont sécurisés.

Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de
la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à
jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et
publiera des mises à jour sur l’état de la rivière sur son site Web tous les jours à https://rivieredesoutaouais.ca/previsions/

Pour consulter les avertissements d’inondation actuels en Ontario, visitez :

www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/fr/.    

Cette DÉCLARATION DE VEILLE DE CRUE est en vigueur jusqu’au 21 mai 2025 à 17 h 00.

Office de protection de la nature de la Vallée de la Mississippi
Contact : Jennifer North
Technologue en ressources hydriques
613-253-0006, poste 243
www.mvc.on.ca

Définitions :

• Énoncé sur les conditions de l’eau : Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts,
  de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme
  les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.

• Énoncé sur les conditions de l’eau : Risque de crue : préavis de crue possible basé sur
  des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.

• Veille de crue : possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.
  Les municipalités, les services d’urgence et les propriétaires fonciers des secteurs inondables
  doivent être prêts à intervenir.

• Avertissement de crue : crue imminente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques

fin —

Flood Watch — Lower Ottawa River

April 23, 2025 — This FLOOD WATCH statement is an update to the Flood Outlook Statement issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on April 11^th, 2025.

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee warns that weather events over the next few weeks, in particular events bringing above normal temperatures and heavy rainfall, may lead to levels and flows exceeding flood levels in some locations.

Water levels and flows have been gradually increasing at several locations along the main stem of the Ottawa River. Levels and flows may continue to increase over the next few weeks due to forecasted rain and increased spring runoff from warmer temperatures and snow melt contributions from outside of the Ottawa Valley.

Minor flood levels may be exceeded in flood prone areas along the river between Lake Coulonge and Carillon (Pembroke to Hawkesbury) starting Saturday, April 26. The minor flood level is defined as the level at which parts of some streets, lawns and parks are beginning to flood, with no or few houses/buildings being affected.

While there are currently no major flooding indicators of concern, it is still too early to forecast peak river conditions which remain dependent on snowmelt and rainfall amounts.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and
providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

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

This FLOOD WATCH STATEMENT is in effect until May 21, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Definitions:

• Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers, and swimmers but flooding is
  not expected.

• Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.

• Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.
  Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

• Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

Veille de crue  — cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

Le 23 avril 2025 — Le présent avis de Veille de crue est une mise à jour de la Perspective de crue  publiée le 11 avril 2025 pour les secteurs situés le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury).

Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais avertit que les conditions météorologiques prévues pour les prochaines semaines, en particulier des températures supérieures à la normale et de fortes précipitations, pourraient entraîner des niveaux et des débits dépassant les niveaux d'inondation à certains endroits.

Les niveaux et les débits ont augmenté progressivement à plusieurs endroits le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais. Les niveaux et les débits pourraient continuer d'augmenter au cours des prochaines semaines en raison des prévisions de pluie et de l'augmentation du ruissellement printanier due aux températures plus chaudes et à la fonte des neiges à l'extérieur de la vallée de l'Outaouais.

Les seuils mineurs d'inondation pourraient être dépassés dans les zones inondables le long de la rivière entre le lac Coulonge et Carillon (de Pembroke à Hawkesbury) à partir du samedi 26 avril. Le seuil mineur d'inondation est défini comme le niveau auquel certaines rues, pelouses et parcs commencent à être inondés, sans qu'aucune ou presque aucune maison ou bâtiment ne soit touché.

Bien qu'il n'y ait actuellement aucun indicateur d'inondation majeure préoccupant, il est encore trop tôt pour prévoir les conditions de crue, qui dépendent toujours de la fonte des neiges et des quantités de pluie.

Les résidents des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l'évolution de la situation et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de rester à l'écart des cours d'eau où le débit est élevé et où les berges pourraient être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et de les surveiller de près à proximité des plans d'eau.

Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et
publiera des mises à jour sur l’état de la rivière sur son site Web tous les jours à https://rivieredesoutaouais.ca/previsions/

Pour consulter les avertissements d’inondation actuels en Ontario, visitez :

www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/fr/.    

Cette DÉCLARATION DE VEILLE DE CRUEest en vigueur jusqu’au 21 mai 2025 à 17 h 00.

Office de protection de la nature de la Vallée de la Mississippi
Contact : Jennifer North

Technologue en ressources hydriques
613-253-0006, poste 243
www.mvc.on.ca

Définitions :

• Énoncé sur les conditions de l’eau : Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts, de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.

• Énoncé sur les conditions de l’eau : Risque de crue : préavis de crue possible basé sur
  des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.

• Veille de crue : possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.
  Les municipalités, les services d’urgence et les propriétaires fonciers des secteurs inondables
  doivent être prêts à intervenir.

• Avertissement de crue : crue imminente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et
  municipalités spécifiques

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Flood Outlook — Lower Ottawa River

April 11, 2025 — This Flood Outlook Statement is an update to the Flood Outlook Statement issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on March 19th, 2025.

Water levels and flows have generally stabilized in all locations along the main stretch of the Ottawa River. With the return of warmer temperatures this weekend and forecasted rainfall, water levels and flows are expected to increase due to snow melt combined with rainfall runoff.

Levels are expected to rise over the next few days in all locations. The snowpack melt in the northern part of the basin is expected to continue over the next few weeks.

While there are currently no significant flooding indicators, it is still too early to forecast peak river conditions which remain dependent on snowmelt and rainfall volume and timing.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take the necessary precautionary measures, as required. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

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

This FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT is in effect until April 30, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Definitions:

• Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers, and swimmers but flooding is not expected.

• Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.

• Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.

• Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

Perspective de crue — Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

11 avril 2025 — Le présent avis de Perspective de crue est une mise à jour de l’avis de Perspective de crue publié le 19 mars 2025 concernant les régions situées le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury).

Les niveaux et les débits d'eau se sont généralement stabilisés sur l'ensemble du tronçon principal de la rivière des Outaouais. Avec le retour des températures plus chaudes cette fin de semaine et les précipitations prévues, les niveaux d'eau et les débits devraient augmenter en raison de la fonte des neiges combinée au ruissellement des précipitations.

Les niveaux d’eau devraient augmenter au cours des prochains jours sur l'ensemble du tronçon. La fonte de la neige accumulée dans la partie nord du bassin devrait se poursuivre au cours des prochaines semaines.

Bien qu'il n'y ait actuellement aucun indicateur d'inondations préoccupant, il est encore trop tôt pour prévoir les conditions maximales des rivières qui restent dépendantes de la fonte des neiges, et du volume et de la période d'occurrence des précipitations.

Les résidents des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l'évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures de précaution nécessaires, le cas échéant. Il leur est conseillé de rester à l'écart des cours d'eau dont le débit est élevé et dont les rives pourraient être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer les dangers aux enfants et d'assurer une surveillance appropriée autour de tous les plans d'eau.

Les offices de protection de la nature de la Vallée de la Mississippi, de la Vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles dans le cadre du programme de prévision des crues et d'avertissement du public. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et émettra des mises à jour concernant les conditions hydrologiques sur son site Web tous les jours à l'adresse rivieredesoutaouais.ca/previsions.

Pour consulter les avertissements de crues en cours dans l'ensemble de l'Ontario, visitez le site :
www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/fr/

Cette PERSPECTIVE DE CRUE est en vigueur jusqu'au 30 avril 2025 à 17 heures.

Office de protection de la nature de la Vallée de la Mississippi

Définitions :

• Communiqué sur les conditions du bassin versant : Sécurité aquatique : indique que les débits élevés, la fonte des glaces ou d'autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour les utilisateurs tels que les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs et les nageurs, mais qu'aucune inondation n'est prévue.
  
• Communiqué sur les conditions du bassin versant : Perspective de crue : préavis de risque de crue en fonction des prévisions météorologiques annonçant de fortes pluies, la fonte des neiges, des vents violents ou d'autres conditions.

• Veille de crue : il existe un risque d'inondation dans certains cours d'eau et dans certaines municipalités.

• Avertissement de crue : l'inondation est imminente ou se produit dans certains cours d'eau et dans certaines municipalités.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ 

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED – FLOOD WATCH – April 11, 2025

A Flood Watch Statement indicates that flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood prone areas should prepare.

MVCA is terminating the Flood Warning issued April 5, 2025. A Flood Watch remains in effect.

Watershed Conditions: Water levels and flows throughout the Mississippi Valley watershed have peaked and are currently stable or gradually declining following the recent precipitation events and snow melt.  

Risks: Based on current weather forecasts, no further increases in water levels or flows are anticipated at this time and residents should see flows noticeably decline by next week.  However, flows and levels are expected to remain higher than normal for the next few weeks as water continues to move out of the system. With storage capacity now reached within the upper lakes, any additional precipitation may exceed thresholds and cause levels and flows to rise again.

 Actions: Residents are reminded to stay clear of all water bodies due to high flows. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until 12:00 pm on April 30, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED – FLOOD WARNING – April 5, 2025

A Flood Warning Statement indicates that flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.  

This Flood Warning is an update to the Flood Watch issued on April 2, 2025.

Watershed Conditions: Water levels and flows are elevated across the MVCA jurisdiction. The combination of snowmelt from warmer temperatures and recent rainfall has led to a significant rise in water levels and flows across local water bodies.

Risks: Rivers and streams are experiencing elevated water levels, fast-moving water and slippery or unstable banks. Flows on the Clyde River continue to rise steadily and are expected to culminate within the next two days, though they will remain high throughout this period.

Lake levels continue to rise as the remaining snowmelt enters the watershed. With little rainfall expected in the forecast, levels are anticipated to stabilize once runoff rates subside over the upcoming days.

Flows within the Indian and Carp Rivers appear to have peaked and are expected to continue to trend downward.

Actions: Residents are reminded to stay off of all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until 12:00 pm, April 11, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:
See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED – FLOOD WATCH – April 2, 2025

A Flood Watch Statement indicates that flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood prone areas should prepare.

Weather Forecast: Forecasts are calling for a substantial precipitation event beginning overnight and continuing through Thursday. A mix of rain and snow is expected, with totals ranging from 10 to 20 mm. Temperatures on Thursday are anticipated to reach the mid-teens.

Watershed Conditions: Water levels and flows across the MVCA jurisdiction are currently elevated due to runoff from snowmelt, which has been intensified by recent rainfall and warmer temperatures. With the ground already near saturation, it has limited capacity to absorb any additional rainfall. The recent snowfall over the weekend will contribute to increased runoff in the coming days.

Risks: Springtime water levels and flows are expected to rise due to the ongoing weather conditions, with this trend continuing into next week. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, flooding in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage is possible. Rivers and streams remain high with fast flowing water. In areas with ice cover, the ice is likely to weaken and break up, increasing the risk of ice jamming.

Actions: Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until 12:00 pm April 7, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED – FLOOD WATCH – March 27, 2025

A Flood Watch Statement indicates that flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood prone areas should prepare.

Weather Forecast: Forecasts are predicting a spring storm that will stretch late Friday into Monday, bringing a mix of weather conditions. Precipitation is expected to range from 5 to 15 mm, with amounts potentially exceeding 20 mm in some areas. Significant ice accretion is expected from freezing rain including possible snow and ice pellet accumulations of 5 to 15 cm.

Watershed Conditions: Water levels and flows are currently high across the MVCA jurisdiction as a result of water bodies responding to the runoff from snowmelt caused by recent rainfall events and warmer temperatures.

Risks: Rivers have stabilized over the last week but are expected to increase again due to the continuing weather conditions. Springtime levels and flows are expected to continue into next week. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, flooding in low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage is possible. Rivers and streams remain high with fast flowing water. Ice cover areas, where they exist, are expected to weaken, and break up, creating a risk of ice jamming.

Actions: Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until 12:00 pm April 3, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Flood Outlook — Lower Ottawa River

March 19, 2025 — A Flood Outlook Statement is being issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury).

A large weather system brought 10 to 20 mm of precipitation over much of the Ottawa River basin between March 15^th and 17^th. This system also brought warm temperatures that triggered a rapid melting of snow in the southern portion of the Ottawa River, marking the beginning of the spring freshet in the Ottawa River basin.

In mid-March, the amount of water in the snow cover was close to average throughout the watershed. A portion of the snow cover, over a large part of the basin, has melted over the last
few days, with a higher portion in the southern part of the basin.

Rising levels along the main stem of the Ottawa River could create possible flooding in
low-lying areas over the coming weeks. Low-lying areas are those that are regularly flooded during the spring freshet period.

While there are currently no flooding indicators of concern, it is still too early to forecast peak river conditions which remain dependent on snowmelt and rainfall amounts.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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

The Ottawa River Regulating Committee will be reassessing forecast conditions and
providing hydrological condition updates on its website daily at www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts/.

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

This FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT is in effect until April 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Contact: Jennifer North

Water Resources Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca

Definitions:

• Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers, and swimmers but flooding is
  not expected.

• Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.

• Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.

• Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

• end —

Risque de Crue - Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

Le 19 mars 2025 - Un avis de perspective de crue est émis pour les secteurs situés le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury).

Un important système météorologique a apporté de 10 à 20 mm de précipitations sur une grande partie du bassin de la rivière des Outaouais entre le 15 et le 17 mars. Ce système a également apporté des températures chaudes qui ont déclenché une fonte rapide de la neige dans la partie sud de la rivière des Outaouais, marquant le début de la crue printanière dans le bassin de la rivière des Outaouais    

A la mi-mars, la quantité d'eau contenue dans la couverture neigeuse était proche de la moyenne sur l'ensemble du bassin versant. Une partie de la couverture neigeuse, sur une grande étendue du bassin, a fondu au cours des derniers jours, et plus particulièrement dans le sud du bassin.

L'élévation du niveau de la rivière des Outaouais pourrait entraîner des inondations dans les zones basses au cours des prochaines semaines. Les zones basses sont celles qui sont régulièrement inondées pendant la période de crue printanière.

Bien qu'il n'y ait actuellement aucun indicateur d'inondation préoccupant, il est encore trop tôt pour prévoir les conditions de crue des rivières, qui dépendent de la fonte des neiges et des précipitations.

Les habitants des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l'évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il leur est conseillé de ne pas s'approcher des cours d'eau dont le débit est élevé et dont les berges peuvent être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et d'assurer une surveillance appropriée autour des cours d'eau.

Les offices de protection de la nature de la Vallée de la Mississippi, de la Vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles dans le cadre du programme de prévision des crues et d'avertissement du public. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Comité de régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et émettra des mises à jour concernant les conditions hydrologiques sur son site Web tous les jours à l'adresse www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts/.

Pour consulter les avertissements de crues en cours dans l'ensemble de l'Ontario, visitez le site : https://www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/fr/

Cette RISQUE DE CRUEest en vigueur jusqu'au 1er avril 2025 à 17 heures.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Contact: Jennifer North

Water Resources Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca

Définitions :

• Communiqué sur les conditions du bassin versant : Sécurité aquatique : indique que les débits élevés, la fonte des glaces ou d'autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour les utilisateurs tels que les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs et les nageurs, mais qu'aucune inondation n'est prévue.
  
  
• Communiqué sur les conditions du bassin versant : risque de crue : préavis de risque de crue
  en fonction des prévisions météorologiques annonçant de fortes pluies, la fonte des neiges,
  des vents violents ou d'autres conditions.

• Veille de crue : il existe un risque d'inondation dans certains cours d'eau et dans
• certaines municipalités.

• Avertissement de crue : l'inondation est imminente ou se produit dans certains cours d'eau et dans certaines municipalités.

• fin —

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Re:       WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK – March 18, 2025

A Flood Outlook Statement is to provide early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Weather Forecast: Warmer temperatures and rainfall are expected over the next couple of days.  Temperatures are expected to start rising today and last until Thursday, March 20^th, with daily highs reaching 15 – 17°C. Precipitation is also expected on Thursday, with forecasts estimating 10 – 15 mm of rainfall.

Watershed Conditions: Snowmelt is expected to continue due to warmer temperatures, combined with anticipated rainfall. This will increase levels and flows in water bodies throughout the watershed. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures. Unstable ice conditions may also be present, which can lead to ice jams.

Risks: Larger rivers such as the Clyde, Fall and Mississippi Rivers will see a significant increase in flows and water levels as snowmelt continues to occur. Levels are expected to increase to springtime elevations on both Dalhousie and Mississippi Lakes. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice buildup.

Flows along the Carp and Indian Rivers and smaller watercourses have peaked from the snowmelt and rainfall over the weekend. Forecasted rainfall and any remnants of snowpack could cause a secondary peak.

Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until 12:00 pm March 24, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca  

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

Re:       WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK – March 14, 2025

A Flood Outlook Statement is to provide early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Weather Forecast: Warmer temperatures and rainfall are expected over the weekend.  Temperatures are expected to start rising on Friday, March 14^th and last until Sunday, March 16^th, with daily highs reaching 12-18° C. Widespread precipitation is also expected during this period, with forecasts estimating 10-20mm of rainfall on Sunday, March 16^th.

Watershed Conditions: Snowmelt due to warmer temperatures, combined with anticipated rainfall may result in increased water levels and flows in water bodies. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures. Unstable ice conditions may also be present, which can lead to ice jams.

Risks: Localized flooding is possible in smaller watercourses such as the Carp and Indian Rivers, along with low lying areas, creeks and ditches as a significant increase in flows over the weekend is expected.

Flows along the larger rivers such as the Clyde, Fall and Mississippi Rivers may experience higher water levels, fast flowing water that will weaken ice cover and lead to slippery or unstable banks. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice buildup. Significant flooding is not expected.

Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding.
• Keeping emergency phone number handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until 12:00pm March 17, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca  

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY – March 3, 2025

A Water Safety Statement is to provide notice of high flows, unsafe 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.

Weather Forecast: Warm temperatures combined with significant rainfall is expected over the next few days. Temperatures are expected to rise on Tuesday, March 4th and last until Friday March 7th, with daily highs reaching 5°C. Widespread precipitation is also expected during this period, with forecasts estimating 20 – 25 mm of rainfall.

Watershed Conditions: Runoff amounts may result in higher water levels in area creeks and streams and along roadside ditches. Unstable ice conditions may also be present, which can lead to ice jams.

Risks: Ice thickness can change drastically due to increased flows and rising temperatures.  The shoreline adjacent to lakes, rivers and creeks is very slippery and poses a serious hazard.  Falling into open water could result in hypothermia or drowning.

Actions: No flooding is anticipated at this time, although, rainfall can cause ice jams to occur along smaller rivers and creeks.  This can cause water levels to rise rapidly without warning. Residents are reminded that no ice is safe ice and to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until March 31, 2025 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:
A Watershed Conditions Statement is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions.

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY – August 8, 2024

A Water Safety Statement is to provide notice of high flows, unsafe 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.

Weather Forecast: A low pressure system combined with the remnants of Hurricane Debby is expected to reach the Mississippi Valley Watershed later today (Thursday) and continue into tomorrow. Widespread rain with embedded thunderstorms are expected for the area. Amounts forecasted could reach anywhere from 40 mm to 75 mm of rain for the duration of the event.

Risks: Streamflows throughout the watershed are within seasonal ranges. Forecasted rainfall over the next two days is likely to cause higher than normal water levels and flows, flooding is not expected.

Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Watershed dams are being operated to manage the increased flows. These areas are extremely dangerous for recreational users of the river system. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Duration: This message is in effect until August 13, 2024 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY – July 17, 2024

A Water Safety Statement is to provide notice of high flows, unsafe 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.

Watershed Conditions: Flows and levels are significantly higher than normal for this time of year across the MVCA jurisdiction due to the continued rain events in June/July.

Risks:  Watershed dams are being operated to manage the increased flows. These areas are extremely dangerous for recreational users of the river system. Higher than normal levels are expected to persist over the next two weeks as excess water moves downstream through the system. Any additional rainfall will prolong these circumstances.

Actions: Residents and visitors are advised to stay well clear of any dam while swimming, boating or fishing to avoid being caught in strong currents and pulled into the dam. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

                Jennifer North

                Water Resource Technologist

                613-253-0006 ext. 243

                jnorth@mvc.on.ca

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED – FLOOD WATCH – July 9, 2024

A Flood Watch Statement indicates that flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood prone areas should prepare.

Weather Forecast: The remnants of Hurricane Beryl are expected to reach Ontario on Wednesday, bringing significant precipitation. The forecast rainfall amounts vary among the weather guidance products at this time. The widespread rainfall amounts will most likely be from 50 mm to 60 mm.

Watershed Conditions: Water levels and flows are high across the MVCA jurisdiction due to the continued rain events in June/July.

Risks: Dalhousie Lake water levels are expected to reach spring flood conditions. Levels are expected to increase 20 to 25 cm above current elevations should the rain forecasted for tomorrow materialize. Water levels on Mississippi Lake are also expected to increase 15 to 20 cm above current levels based on current forecasted conditions. Levels on the upper lakes have been holding steady or dropping slowly over the last week but are expected to begin to increase again should the forecasted rain occur.

Actions: Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Keeping emergency phone numbers handy.
• Familiarizing yourself with your municipality’s emergency preparedness plan.

Duration: This message is in effect until July 16, 2024 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

               Jennifer North

               Water Resource Technologist

               613-253-0006 ext. 243

               jnorth@mvc.on.ca

Newsrooms please note:

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY – June 21, 2024

A Water Safety Statement is to provide notice of high flows, unsafe 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.

Weather Forecast: A low pressure system bordered by two high pressure systems is forecast to bring steady rainfall and risk of thunderstorms. Over the next five days (today through Tuesday), the region could see between 35 and 60 mm of rain with an additional 10 to 60 mm from thunderstorm activity, most of which is forecast for tomorrow (Saturday).

Risks: Streamflows throughout the watershed are within seasonal ranges, however water levels are slightly elevated in localized areas due to recent high rainfall. Recent rain has also decreased the ground capacity for absorption. Forecasted rainfall over the next five days is likely to cause higher than normal water levels and flows, Flooding is not expected.

Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Duration: This message is in effect until June 25, 2024 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Newsrooms please note:
A Watershed Conditions Statement is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions.

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.
Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Flood Outlook — Lower Ottawa River

April 15, 2024 — A Flood Outlook Statement is being issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury).

Based on a large weather system from Texas that brought 15 to 75 mm of precipitation over much of the Ottawa River basin between April 11 and 13, levels and flows along the Ottawa River have begun increasing due to spring runoff. Residents along the shores of the Lower Ottawa River should be aware that throughout the spring freshet period water levels can rise rapidly at times and cause minor flooding in low-lying areas.

Rising water levels along the main stem of the Ottawa River could create possible flooding in low-lying areas over the coming weeks. Low-lying areas are those areas that are regularly flooded during the spring freshet period.

The snow has now melted across much of the Ottawa River watershed. While the absence of snow in a large portion of the basin reduces the risk of significant flooding, it is important to remember that spring water levels depend also on the timing and amount of rainfall during the months of April and May. Weather conditions that bring heavy rainfall events can only be known a few days in advance.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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.

The Ottawa River Secretariat will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates online: www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

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

This FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT is in effect until May 6, 2024 at 5:00 PM.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca  

Risque de crue – Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

Le 15 avril 2024 — Un communiqué de risque de crue est émis pour les régions situées le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury).      

D'après un vaste système météorologique provenant du Texas qui a apporté de 15 à 75 mm de précipitations sur une grande partie du bassin de la rivière des Outaouais entre le 11 et le 13 avril, les niveaux et les débits le long de la rivière des Outaouais ont commencé à augmenter en raison de la crue printanière. Les résidents sur les rives du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais doivent savoir que pendant la période de la crue printanière, les niveaux d'eau peuvent parfois augmenter rapidement et provoquer des inondations mineures dans les zones basses.

La hausse des niveaux de l‘eau le long du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais pourrait créer des inondations dans les zones basses au cours des prochaines semaines. Les zones basses sont les zones qui sont régulièrement inondées pendant la période de la crue printanière.

La neige a maintenant fondu dans une grande partie du bassin versant de la rivière des Outaouais. Même si l’absence de neige dans une grande partie du bassin réduit le risque d’inondations importantes, il est important de rappeler que les niveaux d’eau du printemps dépendent également du moment et de la quantité des précipitations au cours des mois d’avril et de mai. Les conditions météorologiques qui entraînent de fortes précipitations ne peuvent être connues que quelques jours à l’avance.

Les résidents des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l’évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de ne pas s'approcher des cours d'eau dont le débit est élevé et dont les berges peuvent être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et d'assurer une surveillance appropriée autour des cours d'eau. 

Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles et des Forêts dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Secrétariat pour la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et fournira des mises à jour des conditions hydrologiques sur son site Web : www.rivieredesoutaouais.ca/previsions/.

Pour consulter les avertissements de crues actuels à travers l'Ontario, visitez :
www.lioapplications.lrc.gov.on.ca/webapps/swmc/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program/fr/.

Ce COMMUNIQUÉ DE RISQUE DE CRUE est en vigueur jusqu’au 6 mai 2024 à 17 h.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca  

Re:       WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – WATER SAFETY – March 22, 2024

A Water Safety Statement is to provide notice of high flows, unsafe 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.

This Water Safety Statement is an update to the Flood Outlook Statement issued March 08, 2024.

Watershed Conditions: Water levels across the watershed have peaked and are on the decline. With minimal precipitation in the forecast over the next couple of weeks, no flooding is expected and flows should continue to recede.

Risks: The MVCA will continue to operate the dams with the objective of reaching target water levels by the end of May, but will require significant rainfall for those targets to be reached.

Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Duration: This message is in effect until April 5, 2024 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca  

Newsrooms please note:
A Watershed Conditions Statement is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions.

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety — Lower Ottawa River

March 18, 2024 — A Water Safety Statement is being issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury).

This winter has been characterised by unseasonably warm temperatures, below-average precipitation in many locations and several melt events. As of mid-March, the amount of water in the snowpack is well below average for this time of year across the Ottawa River watershed. The snow is essentially gone in the south-east portion of the basin and well below average elsewhere for this time of year.

Environment Canada is forecasting cooler, more seasonable, temperatures for the next week. Temperature highs from Thursday to the weekend will remain near or below zero, with subzero temperatures overnight. With the cool weather, some snow is forecasted throughout the region.

The water levels and flows on the Ottawa River are currently elevated in some locations for this time of year because of the early spring-like weather. Although it’s too early to forecast the magnitude and timing of the peak on the main stem of the Ottawa River, the weather experienced over the last couple of weeks could constitute a mild start of freshet. However, it’s not possible to completely rule out the occurrence of flooding this early in the year. Weather conditions over the coming weeks (such as additional snowfall and heavy rainfall events) will influence the strength of the freshet. Often, these weather conditions only become certain a few days in advance.

Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures. Residents are advised to stay away from watercourses where flows are high and where banks might be unstable. Parents are encouraged to explain dangers to children and provide appropriate supervision around all waterbodies.

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.

The Ottawa River Secretariat will be reassessing forecast conditions and providing hydrological condition updates on its website when the freshet begins or if wet weather leads to flood risks www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

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

This WATER SAFETY STATEMENT is in effect until April 8, 2024 at 5:00 PM.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Contact: Jennifer North

Water Resources Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca

Definitions:

• Water Conditions Statement: Water Safety: indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers, and swimmers but flooding is not expected.

• Water Conditions Statement: Flood Outlook: gives early notice of the potential for flooding

based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high winds, or other conditions.

• Flood Watch: potential for flooding exists within specific watercourses and municipalities.

• Flood Warning: flooding is imminent or occurring within specific watercourses and municipalities.

Déclaration de sécurité aquatique – Cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais

Le 18 mars 2024 - Une DÉCLARATION DE SÉCURITÉ AQUATIQUE est émise pour les secteurs situés le long du cours inférieur de la rivière des Outaouais (d'Arnprior à Hawkesbury).

Cet hiver a été caractérisé par des températures anormalement élevées, des précipitations inférieures à la moyenne dans de nombreux endroits et plusieurs phénomènes de fonte. À la mi-mars, la quantité d'eau du manteau neigeux est bien inférieure à la moyenne pour cette période de l'année dans l'ensemble du bassin versant de la rivière des Outaouais. Il n'y a pratiquement plus de neige dans la partie sud-est du bassin et ailleurs, elle est bien inférieure à la moyenne pour cette période de l'année.

Environnement Canada prévoit des températures plus fraîches et plus saisonnières pour la semaine prochaine. Les températures maximales de jeudi à la fin de semaine demeureront près de zéro ou sous zéro, avec des températures sous zéro pendant la nuit. Avec le temps frais, un peu de neige est prévue dans toute la région.

Bien qu'il soit trop tôt pour prévoir l'ampleur et le moment de la crue du cours principal de la rivière des Outaouais, les conditions météorologiques des deux dernières semaines pourraient constituer un début de crue douce. Cependant, il n'est pas possible d'exclure complètement la possibilité d'une inondation si tôt dans l'année. Les conditions météorologiques des semaines à venir (telles que des chutes de neige supplémentaires et de fortes précipitations) influenceront l'intensité de la crue nivale.

Les résidents des zones inondables sont invités à suivre de près l'évolution des conditions et à prendre les mesures nécessaires. Il est conseillé aux résidents de ne pas s'approcher des cours d'eau dont le débit est élevé et dont les berges peuvent être instables. On demande aux parents d'expliquer ces dangers à leurs enfants et d'assurer une surveillance appropriée autour des cours d'eau.

Les offices de protection de la nature de la vallée de la Mississippi, de la vallée de la Rideau et de la Nation Sud surveillent les niveaux d'eau et les prévisions météorologiques avec le ministère des Richesses naturelles et des Forêts dans le cadre du programme de prévision et d'alerte des crues. Des mises à jour sont émises au fur et à mesure que les conditions changent.

Le Secrétariat pour la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais réévaluera les conditions prévues et fournira des mises à jour des conditions hydrologiques sur son site Web lorsque la crue nivale commencera ou si le temps humide entraîne des risques d'inondation www.ottawariver.ca/forecasts.

Pour consulter les alertes de crues en cours dans l'ensemble de l'Ontario, visitez le site : www.ontario.ca/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program.

La présente DÉCLARATION DE SÉCURITÉ AQUATIQUE est en vigueur jusqu'au 8 avril 2024 à 17 h.

Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority

Water Resources Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca

• Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Sécurité aquatique : indique que des débits forts, de la glace fondante ou d’autres facteurs peuvent être dangereux pour des utilisateurs comme les plaisanciers, les pêcheurs à la ligne et les baigneurs, mais qu’une crue n’est pas prévue.

• Communiqué sur les conditions des bassins versants – Perspective de crue : préavis de crue possible basé sur des prévisions de pluies abondantes, de fonte des neiges, de forts vents ou autre.

• Veille de crue : possibilité de crue pour des cours d’eau et municipalités spécifiques.

• Avertissement de crue : crue immimente ou en cours pour des cours d’eau et
  municipalités spécifiques.

• Fin  -

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Re:       WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – FLOOD OUTLOOK – March 8, 2024

A Flood Outlook Statement is to provide early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Weather Forecast:  Significant rainfall is expected over the weekend.  Widespread precipitation is expected during this period, with forecasts estimating 20 – 40 mm of rainfall.

Watershed Conditions: Snowmelt due to warmer temperatures, combined with anticipated rainfall may result in increased water levels and flows in water bodies. The degree of increase will depend on actual precipitation and temperatures. Unstable ice conditions may also be present, which can lead to ice jams.

Risks: Rivers and streams may experience higher water levels, fast flowing water and slippery or unstable banks. Additionally, these conditions elevate the risk for ice buildup. Significant flooding is not expected.

Actions: Residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution near all water bodies due to high flows and slippery conditions. Parents are encouraged to remind children about these dangers and provide appropriate supervision.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have a backwater valve.
• Having a portable generator and backup pump available.
• Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 meters from any structure.
• Removing or securing items that might float away if flows increase.
• Removing valuable items from basements or lower floors that could be subject to flooding.

Duration: This message is in effect until March 18, 2024 or until an update has been issued.

For More Information: Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at www.mvc.on.ca/water-levels. For more information, contact:

Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca       

Newsrooms please note:
A Watershed Conditions Statement is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions.

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: General notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

WATERSHED CONDITIONS STATEMENT – Water Safety

Stay clear of ice-covered or fast-moving waterways.

February 26, 2024 MISSISSIPPI VALLEY WATERSHED—With above seasonal daytime temperatures and several millimeters of rain forecasted over the next few days, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) is reminding residents to exercise extreme caution near rivers and waterbodies that have high flows and slippery bank conditions. No flooding is anticipated at this time; however, runoff amounts may result in higher water levels in creeks and streams, and along roadside ditches.

Ice thickness can also change drastically due to increased flows and rising temperatures.  The shoreline adjacent to lakes, rivers and creeks is very slippery and poses a serious hazard.  Falling into open water could result in hypothermia or drowning. No ice is safe ice.

Rainfall can cause ice jams to occur along the river.  This can cause water levels to rise rapidly without warning.

The MVCA reminds the public to exercise extreme caution around all water bodies:

•             People and pets should stay away from all frozen or fast-moving water bodies.

•             Parents are urged to remind children about the dangers of playing on or near ice covered surfaces and open water.

Residents in flood prone areas are advised to maintain a close watch on water levels and flows and take the necessary precautions to protect their property by:

•             Ensuring sump pumps are clear, in good working condition and have backwater valves.

•             Having a portable generator and backup pump available.

•             Ensuring downspouts are clear and the outlet is at least 3 m from any structure.

•             Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase.

This message will be in effect until (or updated before) March 11, 2024.

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at http://mvc.on.ca/water-levels/

-end-

Contact: Jennifer North
Water Resource Technologist
613-253-0006 ext. 243
jnorth@mvc.on.ca               www.mvc.on.ca

Newsrooms please note:
A Watershed Conditions Statement is NOT a flood warning. Its purpose is to raise public awareness about a change or potential change in watershed conditions.

See below for watershed conditions terminology:

Watershed Conditions Statement: general notice of weather conditions that could pose a risk to personal safety or which have the potential to lead to flooding. There are two variations of these:

• Water Safety Statement: High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.
• Flood Outlook Statement: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities and individuals should act to deal with flood conditions. This may include road closures and evacuations.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Normal status indicates that no flood conditions exist. However, even during Normal conditions, the inherent risk to personal safety associated with flowing water still exists.

Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety: High flows, unsafe 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.

Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook: Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding, or erosion.

Flood Watch: Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services, and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning: Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.