MAY 1, Ottawa River – Constance Bay Area — Further to the press release issued by the Ottawa River Planning Board, the Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority is issuing a Flood Outlook for the Lac Deschene (Constance Bay, Britannia Bay) area of the Ottawa River watershed.

Levels and flows along the Ottawa River have started to increase with the onset of the spring freshet period. Based on the current snowpack and the weather forecast, levels and flows from Arnprior to Deschenes Rapids are expected to remain within the normal range of fluctuations associated with this time of year; however the normal range may be slightly exceeded. Model outputs currently indicate that levels are expected to increase of 50 to 60 cm over the next week and peak on or about May 7th, 2018. Given the size of the Ottawa River basin and forecasted rain over the next week, these predictions could change quickly and significantly.

Levels and flows along the Ottawa River have started to increase with the onset of the spring freshet period. Based on the current snowpack and the weather forecast, levels and flows are expected to remain within the normal range of fluctuations associated with this period of the year. 

Residents are strongly urged to remind children of the dangers of hypothermia from cold water and playing near fast flowing rivers and creeks.

Residents in low lying areas, historically susceptible to flooding, should take the necessary precautions to protect their property, such as:

• Ensuring sump pumps are clear and in good working condition

• Removing or securing items that might float away as flows increase

This Watershed Conditions Statement is valid through May 7, 2018. Additional statements will be issued when or if conditions are expected to change significantly from this outlook.

Daily water levels and flows are available on the MVCA website at http://mvc.on.ca/water-levels/

The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority flood forecasting and warning program monitors weather conditions, snowpack water content, estimates expected river flows and water levels and issues flood advisories or warnings as required. MVCA provides early warning and continuous monitoring to municipal and provincial emergency response personnel through a flood event.