Water level rise expected for the Ottawa River: Ville de Gatineau asking shoreline property owners in the Aylmer sector to prepare

Gatineau, April 26, 2025. – Gatineau has been monitoring water levels in the rivers for the past few weeks and adapting its actions as the situation evolves. Although last week's projections were optimistic, things are changing quickly due to the combination of warmer temperatures and rainfall in the past few days, as well as those forecast for the weekend.

According to the latest projections by the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (ORRPB), water levels in the Ottawa River should surpass the minor flood threshold, but will not reach the major flood threshold.

Quick facts

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Based on this 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. – It should be noted that, for the time being, projections indicate that water levels will not reach the 2023 levels.

●	Certain streets are currently at risk of surpassing the minor flood threshold, particularly in the Aylmer sector's lower lying areas. Fraser and Lamoureux are among those being closely watched. – Gatineau will monitor them and adapt its interventions accordingly.

●	As a preventive measure, starting Sunday, Gatineau will monitor flooded streets and control access to or close them, as called for.

●	Service de sécurité incendie de Gatineau (SSIG) representatives are going door to door to alert the concerned residents. Their aim is to provide support, answer questions and ensure that everyone is aware of the situation.

●	Shoreline property owners along the Ottawa River are invited to check ORRPB projections over the coming days. Gatineau will keep the public updated as the situation evolves.

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At this point, close to 60,000 sand-filled bags are available. This reserve is part of Gatineau's preparations in anticipation of the spring freshet. As of tomorrow, the Pink municipal site (1299 chemin Pink) will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to Aylmer sector residents wishing to pick up sandbags. – Given that the situation is evolving, adjustments may be called for based on the needs on the front lines

What residents can do

●	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 calling on residents to collaborate by picking up limited numbers of sandbags to leave enough for their neighbours. This will enable everyone to start building their sandbag walls in preparation for the week.

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

●	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

“The situation has evolved over the past few days, and we are closely monitoring water levels, which, for the time being, should reach medium flood levels by early next week in the Aylmer sector. Gatineau has the necessary experience to deal with this type of situation: our municipal crews are at the ready and have been deployed throughout the territory. Gatineau invites shoreline property owners to prepare as a precaution, and to sign up for alerts to remain fully informed,” indicated Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette.

Associated links

Spring freshet

How to stay informed

CPRRO - Forecasts

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