Spring flood – Good news for Gatineau shoreline residents, Ottawa River water levels dropping

Gatineau, April 22, 2020. – Finally some good news for Gatineau shoreline residents. According to the latest forecasts by the Commission de planification de la régularisation de la rivière des Outaouais (CPRRO), the spring freshet in southern Quebec is over. What's more, the waters coming from the north do not appear to pose any danger of major flooding in Gatineau.

Quick facts

●	On April 21, the CPRRO announced that Ottawa River water levels were dropping due to decreased meltwater from its tributaries.

●	The CPRRO also indicated that the overall trend for levels and flows all along the river will be down due to lower than usual temperatures and the small amount of precipitation expected over the coming days.

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Gatineau is continuing to closely monitor the situation with its partners. - Water levels and weather forecasts are being closely watched in collaboration with the ministère de la Sécurité publique and the CPRRO. - Municipal crews are also keeping a close eye on groundwater levels throughout the territory.

●	Gatineau is able to take precise measurements of water levels in real time in every sector. - Gatineau has four hydrometric stations and has access to two of Environment Canada's. - To check water levels, go to gatineau.ca/crue.

●	As you know, the main factors influencing spring floods are: - the amount of snowfall over the winter; - sudden warm temperatures that stay high overnight; and - the amount of rainfall.

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Residents also have an important role to play in keeping themselves safe. The first steps in ensuring their own safety and that of their families, and protecting their possessions are up to them. - Gatineau asks shoreline residents to remain vigilant until there is no longer any possibility of flooding.

Citation

"We know that many Gatineau shoreline residents worry in the spring. So today's news is particularly encouraging," indicated Gatineau Mayor Maxime Pedneaud-Jobin.

Associated links

Spring flood

Prepare

Emergency kits

Stay tuned

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