Flood Outlook - Lower Ottawa River

April 14^th, 2026 - A Flood Outlook Statement is being issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury).
 
A large weather system entered the Ottawa River Basin and is forecasted to bring up to 30 mm of rain by Sunday April 19^th, in addition to the 10 - 20 mm of rain that previously fell over the weekend. This system also brings warmer temperatures. This will further melt the existing snowpack that remains in the upper regions of the Ottawa River Basin and lead to an increase in levels and flows in the Ottawa River.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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 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/page/floods
 
This FLOOD OUTLOOK STATEMENT is in effect until April 27, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
 
South Nation Conservation
Phillip Dagenais, Water Resources Specialist; 1-877-984-2948, pdagenais@nation.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.
  
  

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