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This Flood Warning statement is an update to the Flood Warning issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury) on April 20th, 2026.
Water levels and flows have gradually declined along the Ottawa River over the last few days. Based on forecasts from the Ottawa River Regulation Committee, rain forecasted in the Ottawa River Basin will lead to increases in water levels starting today. Water level increases should remain below the peaks observed last week.
From Arnprior to Britannia the potential for major flood levels to be exceeded may be possible by the weekend.
From Britannia to Hawkesbury, minor flood levels are expected to persist in some flood-prone areas, with major flood levels being exceeded in some areas by the weekend.
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 the following impacts in flood prone areas along the Ottawa River:
Petrie Island to Cumberland
Water levels have receded since April 22 and are expected to rise again by the weekend, remaining below the recent peak. Flooding of low-lying roadways, parkland, and adjacent properties will persist, with some roads continuing to experience access limitations. A small number of low-lying properties may experience water at residential structures. Residents in affected areas should maintain flood mitigation measures.
City of Clarence-Rockland to Hawkesbury
Water levels have receded since April 22 and are expected to rise again by the weekend, remaining below the recent peak. Flooding of low-lying roadways, parkland, and adjacent properties are expected to continue this week. In some areas, water on roads may limit access. A small number of low-lying properties will experience water approaching residential structures.
Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to closely follow changing conditions and to take necessary measures, such as:
- 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 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 WARNING is in effect until May 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM.