Rising Ottawa River Levels Prompt Flood Warning for area Residents

Rising Ottawa River Levels Prompt Flood Warning for Residents

Residents along the Ottawa River are being urged to remain vigilant in the coming days as water levels continue to rise, with the potential for significant flooding in low-lying areas.

In a joint advisory, the Rideau Valley, Mississippi Valley, and South Nation conservation authorities are calling on property owners to take precautionary measures ahead of the weekend. The agencies warn that ongoing rainfall over the past week, combined with additional precipitation in the forecast, is contributing to increasing river levels across the region.

Communities along the stretch from Arnprior to Britannia are also at risk, with minor flooding anticipated by Thursday. Water levels in these areas could escalate further, surpassing major flood thresholds by the weekend.

Residents are encouraged to closely monitor updates, secure property, and be prepared to act should conditions deteriorate.

The authorities are telling people in flood-prone areas to follow the changing conditions and prepare, including making sure sump pumps are clear, a backup generator is available, downspouts, driveways and culverts are clear, and securing items outside that could float away.

This comes on top of warnings from Environment Canada saying the ground in the valley cannot absorb much more water.