Update on spring freshet projections - Downward revisions

Gatineau, April 28, 2025. – The latest projections by the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB) indicate that Ottawa River water levels should be rising less rapidly than predicted and remain lower than in 2023. Thus, Gatineau anticipates that fewer buildings will be affected than announced on April 26.

Nonetheless, it is important to remain vigilant given the low-pressure weather system expected in the coming days. Gatineau is well prepared and is monitoring the situation hourly.

Quick facts

●	Based on the latest information, Gatineau is warning that certain streets in the Aylmer sector may be flooded by early next week. Municipal crews are at the ready and monitoring the entire territory. – Some bike paths are closed. – Concerned residents have been contacted by firefighters.

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Certain streets in Gatineau's eastern sector may be hit by minor flooding later this week. These include Jacques-Cartier, Hurtubise and Fer-à-Cheval. – Gatineau is closely monitoring the situation and will adapt its interventions accordingly. – Firefighters will contact concerned shoreline property owners this week once the projections have been better confirmed.

●	Ottawa River shoreline property owners are urged to track ORRPB projections throughout the week. Gatineau will inform the public as the situation evolves.

●	Close to 60,000 full sandbags remain available. The Pink municipal site (1299 chemin Pink) is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to residents wishing to pick up sandbags.

Actions by residents

●	Emergency response is everyone's business and calls for teamwork. Residents have a key role to play in terms of taking the necessary steps to ensure their own safety and protect their property.

●	Gatineau is asking residents to cooperate and avoid driving through the concerned sectors.

●	Residents are also asked to sign up for text messages and email alerts at gatineau.ca/crue.

●	Residents may at any time call 811 for psycho-social support. Info-Social 811, option 2 is a free and confidential phone consultation service offered year-round, 24/7.

Quote

“Although the latest projections are encouraging and indicate lower water levels than anticipated, we must remain vigilant in view of the upcoming weather system. Our crews are at the ready and are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of our residents,” indicated Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette.

Associated links

Website

April 26 news release

April 28th - Press conference

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