Water Conditions Statement:
Water Safety - Lower Ottawa River 

April 7th, 2026 — A Water Safety Statement is being issued for areas along the Lower Ottawa River (Arnprior to Hawkesbury).
    
Warmer weather and rain over the last few weeks have increased the melting of the snowpack in the northern parts of the Ottawa River Basin, increasing water levels in the Ottawa River, and marking the beginning of the spring freshet.
 
While significant amounts of the snowpack have melted in the southernmost parts of the Ottawa River Basin, much of the snow remains in the north. 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/law-and-safety/flood-forecasting-and-warning-program    
 
This WATER SAFETY STATEMENT is in effect until April 21st, 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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