The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources says a flood warning remains in effect along parts of the Ottawa River, with residents in low-lying areas from Pembroke to Arnprior being urged to remain vigilant as spring runoff continues.
The warning, which is expected to remain in place through May 19 unless updated, applies most notably to the Westmeath area, where elevated water levels have continued to affect shoreline properties.
The ministry’s Pembroke District office said water levels on the Ottawa River remain high, although conditions have begun to stabilize or decline in some areas. Officials cautioned, however, that freshet activity is still unfolding in northern parts of the watershed and could continue to influence downstream conditions.
Residents who have experienced flooding in the past are being advised to secure vulnerable property near rivers and lakes and to closely monitor local conditions and updated advisories.
The ministry said daytime temperatures are expected to range between 5 and 20 degrees Celsius this week, with overnight lows between 0 and 10 degrees. Warmer temperatures are forecast later in the week.
Rainfall is also expected throughout the week, with precipitation totals of up to 25 millimetres possible depending on the path of weather systems.
Officials said water levels and flows along the Ottawa River between Pembroke and Arnprior are expected to remain elevated because of ongoing snowmelt and spring runoff from central and northern parts of the basin, combined with continued warm temperatures.
Flooding in low-lying areas is expected to persist, particularly in areas already experiencing high water levels. The ministry is encouraging residents to monitor local forecasts, weather statements and warnings as conditions evolve.
The ministry said it continues to monitor local lakes, rivers and weather conditions and will provide further updates if necessary.
(Steve Berard)
