Stay informed: Flood watches active for local watersheds

The warm temperatures and recent precipitation have led to significant snowmelt and rising water levels across many of our local watersheds. As a result, flood watches are currently in effect. Residents living near waterways are encouraged to monitor conditions closely and consult the latest updates and resources on our Spring Flooding webpage.

Residents should also visit their local conservation authority for the latest information and sign up for alerts:

• Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority
• Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board
• Rideau Valley Conservation Authority
• South Nation Conservation

The Rideau Valley and Mississippi Valley conservation authorities have issued Water Safety statements due to high water levels. 

Flood Watches have been issued for:

• South Nation Conservation Authority: All waterways
• Rideau Valley Conservation Authority: North Gower area
• Mississippi Conservation Authority: Carp River

The Ottawa River continues to see water levels remain at close to seasonal values. Slightly higher water levels may occur in the Ottawa area due to the increased flows coming from smaller waterways including the Rideau River.

Visit the City’s website for information on for the latest sandbag filling locations, current road and pathway closures, and other support information. 

Available sandbag filling locations:

• 2145 Roger Stevens Drive
• 4127 John Shaw Road
• 29 Hurdman Road
• 911 Industrial Avenue

Current road closures:

• The pathway at Linda Thom Park, under Billings Bridge
• Ray Wilson Road, between York’s Corners Road and Gregoire Road
• Pathway under Hurdman LRT Bridge

If you come across a flooded road, park or pathway, avoid travelling through the flooded area. Check-in with friends and family in the area and report the location to 3-1-1:

• Flooded roadway
• Blocked or flooded ditch
• Blocked catch basin or maintenance hole

The spring melt may also cause water pooling and urban flooding when combined with significant rainfall.

Melting snow combined with precipitation may cause water to pool water at the end of driveways and on the streets in your neighbourhood. Clearing snow and ice from nearby catch basins will help drain the water into the stormwater sewer system.

Our Basement Flooding webpage also contains information for homeowners to take proactive steps to prevent basement flooding, such sealing basement windows and disconnecting downspouts. Visit the City’s Basement flooding page for more preventative steps and what to do if your basement floods.