Flood update – Water levels expected to rise over the coming days

Gatineau, April 28, 2026. – According to the latest information provided by the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) yesterday evening, water levels and flows are forecast to rise gradually starting Wednesday in certain sectors, and starting Thursday in others. The possibility of a second peak within Gatineau cannot be dismissed. Shoreline property owners are encouraged to take advantage of the fact that some flood-prone roads have been reopened to local traffic and stock up on supplies and sandbags if necessary. Depending on forecast levels, some roads may be closed to traffic once again.

At a glance

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According to the ORRPB: – Rapid snowmelt accompanied by rain could lead to higher levels than those observed between April 19 and 22 at all locations. – Snowmelt is increasing in the northern part of the basin, sending more spring runoff downstream. – Forecast rain over the next few days is expected to add more water, depending on how much rain falls and where. – This could lead to water levels and flows increasing gradually over the next few days, although exact outcomes remain uncertain.

Available resources

●	The four sandbag distribution sites are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Check gatineau.ca/flood for their locations.

●	It should be noted that residents can use professional loading equipment at the parc du Lac-Beauchamp sandbag distribution site. – However, 311 should be notified ahead of time to ensure there are enough sandbags for everyone.

●	The Flood Victims Relief Centre is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Centre sportif de Gatineau, 850 boulevard de la Gappe.

●	Showers remain available from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations: – Centre aquatique Lucien-Houle; – Centre aquatique Paul-Pelletier; and – Centre sportif de Gatineau.

●	Worrisome situations can be reported to the 311 non-emergency call centre. If personal or property security is threatened, call 911.

Getting around and interactive map

●	Even where roads are no longer under water, certain parts remain stricken zones. Thus, roads that have reopened are to be used only for local traffic. Depending on what happens with water levels over the coming days, some of the roads that recently reopened may be closed again.

●	Shoreline property owners are asked to check the interactive map at gatineau.ca/flood to plan their movements, find out about road conditions and follow the situation in real time.

●	Additional information is also available on the interactive map, such as the location of parking for shoreline property owners and of trash containers in the affected areas.

Wellness checks

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Gatineau will continue to check on people affected by the flooding. Wellness checks will be extended to people registered as flood victims to see how they are doing and make sure their needs are met. – The wellness checks are intended to inform, reassure and support flood victims. – Anyone wishing to register as a flood victim or to access this service should call 311.

●	Anyone who feels the need can call 811 for psycho-social support.

Waste collection

●	In anticipation of rising water levels, please remember that trash collection will be temporarily suspended on roads affected by flooding.

●	Clearly identified containers have been installed in safe locations. Residents on flooded roads are asked to leave their trash in those containers, being sure to sort them as required.

●	The interactive map showing the container locations is continuously updated to reflect changes in the situation. It can be viewed at gatineau.ca/flood

Quote

“We know that the pas few weeks have been tough on many families. Given the new forecasts, I ask shoreline property owners to remain prudent, even as they take advantage of the current respite to prepare as needed. Gatineau is there for you: our crews remain at the ready,” indicated Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette.

Associated links

Ottawa River Current Conditions

Spring freshet

Prepare

Stay tuned

During the flooding

Owners of artesian and surface wells

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