Water levels on Ottawa River remain stable but second peak possible

A road is closed in Gatineau, Que. due to flooding. April 24, 2026. (Natalie van Rooy/CTV News Ottawa)

Levels on the Ottawa River remain stable on Tuesday, but officials warn a second flood peak is possible with rain in the forecast.

Water levels are down about 15 centimetres at Britannia and down about 38 centimetres in Hull from the April 21 peak, according to the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board.

The planning board said on Monday afternoon that snow is melting in the northern part of the basin, which is sending more spring runoff downstream, meaning levels could rise again when combined with more rain.

“Forecast rain over the next few days is expected to add more water from the northern and central unregulated areas, with quantities depending on how much rain falls and where. This could lead to water levels and flows increasing gradually in all locations over the next few days,” the planning board said.

“The rate of snowmelt in the northern portion of the basin and the potential for rainfall over the coming weeks remain uncertain. As a result, in the coming weeks, a second flood peak remains possible from Pembroke to the Montreal region, as well as the possibility of levels at Mattawa exceeding major flood levels for the first time.”

A flood warning remains in effect for the Lower Ottawa River. The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) says the potential for major flood levels to be exceeded from Arnprior to Britannia 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.

“Water levels are currently expected to remain well below historical flood levels on the main stem of the Ottawa River,” the MVCA said on Monday.

In Gatineau, the city says accommodations for the 41 people who have evacuated their homes has been extended to Wednesday.

The City of Gatineau said on Tuesday morning that the risk of a second peak cannot be ruled out.

“Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the reopening of certain flood-prone streets to local traffic to stock up on supplies and sandbags, if needed. Depending on the projected water levels, some streets may be closed to traffic again,” the city said in an update.

The City of Gatineau says it will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to those affected by the flooding. Calls will be made to registered flood victims to check on them and ensure their needs are met.

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