On Thursday April 25th at 4 pm, the Mayor declared a state of emergency for the City of Ottawa in response to flooding along the Ottawa River. By declaring a state of emergency, the City has formally requested assistance from the province to bring in additional resources to help with the emergency operation and support residents and property owners at risk of flooding.
The Canadian Armed Forces will deploy 400 troops to key areas.
Website Links to the City of Ottawa Flood Information:
- Click here for current situation.
- Flooding information
- Sandbags
- Volunteers
- Support on Private Property
- Tips to Prevent Basement Flooding
- Flooding and Road Closures Interactive Map: check Incidents box
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Pathways Closures Interactive Map: NCC site
Will There Be Flooding in Your Area?
The potential for flooding does exist during the spring. Large amounts of rain may also cause flooding at any time. Flooding in your area will depend on your proximity to waterways and floodplains. The City is working with the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (link is external), the South Nation Conservation Authority (link is external)
Emergency Preparedness Tips
The best protection in any emergency is knowing what to do.
If a flood is forecast or imminent in your neighbourhood.
- Move important papers/documents, electrical appliances and other important belongings to floors above ground level
- Listen to the radio to find out what areas are affected, what roads are safe, where to go and what to do if you are asked to leave your home
- Keep your cell phone charged and your gas tank full in case you are asked to leave your home
- Keep your emergency kit close at hand, in a portable container such as a duffle bag, backpack, or suitcase with wheels
- If you are asked to evacuate take your emergency kit with you, follow routes specified by officials and make arrangements for pets.
- Check on others in your neighbourhood who may be more vulnerable and need extra help or support
- Monitor your local radio and television stations for updated news and weather information.
City information: call 3-1-1
For Life Threatening Emergencies: call 9-1-1
For more information contact Ottawa Public Health at 613-580-6744 to speak with a Public Health Inspector.
Flood Awareness and Prevention Tips
As snow melts in the spring and during times of significant rainfall, large bodies of water such as rivers may have stronger than usual currents. The City reminds residents to stay away from all bodies of water. Parents should ensure their children and pets stay a safe distance from any water’s edge. Do not attempt to rescue people or animals should they fall into a river. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority (link is external), the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board (link is external) and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (link is external) – who are responsible for monitoring water levels in our region. Check their Web sites for updates and advisories on potential river flooding.
Basement Flooding and Sewers
Help prevent basement flooding and reduce the negative effects of flood damage by making a few simple changes around your home. Plan ahead, educate yourself and take some early precautions to prevent water from getting into your home. Learn about sewer backups and basement flooding, from general questions to what to do and steps to follow in the case of a basement flood or your sewer backs up.