For the next few weeks, this will be a living document, updated regularly with the latest on the 2025 Spring Freshet.
Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Update
The rainfall on Sunday, coupled with warmer temperatures created a significant melt over the weekend. Consequently, there were areas of standing water and localized flooding. A small number of roads and paths remain closed at this time. Affected locations will be monitored and re-opened as soon as it is safe to do so.
CURRENT CONDITIONS
The recent melt released a significant amount of water onto lands, and into drainage systems, creeks, and rivers. Despite this, many waterways and some lands continue to have ice.
We anticipate water levels will stabilize in our smaller waterways in the short term but also expect water levels to remain elevated. Water will continue to be added to our systems in the form of precipitation, melting of remaining / future snow, and from held water being released from behind ice dams.
Each of our conservation authorities have issued either a flood outlook statement or a flood watch. None of the conservation authorities are currently predicting significant or widespread flooding, but each is highlighting safety statements for residents and / or specific waterways.
OUR RESPONSE
Sandbag depots have been opened in five locations to date. The number of stations will increase as required and an updated list can always be found here. At the moment, the list includes two West Carleton locations: the Constance Bay Community Centre at 262 Len Purcell Drive, and the Kinburn Works Garage at 4127 John Shaw Road.
The list of closed roads and pathways will be updated as required and can be found here.
As of this update, the list includes Vaughan Side Road between Donald B. Munro Drive and William Hodgins Lane.
Working with our external partners, the City’s Spring Freshet Task Force continues to monitor conditions on local waterways including the Ottawa River- and Rideau River.
Some of the flood damage observed on specific roads over the weekend will take some time to repair, but crews are working to open them as soon as possible.
WHAT RESIDENTS CAN DO
Residents are encouraged to sign up for updates and follow the guidance that comes from the conservation authorities that represent their area.
·                  Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority Â
·                  Rideau Valley Conservation Authority Â
·                  South Nation Conservation Authority Â
Information on Ottawa River conditions can be found at Current Conditions - Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board. Â
More flooding information can be found on ottawa.ca here and the City has also launched its flooding Facebook page. Â
Got a question about this or any other Ward or City issue? Just send an email to Clarke.Kelly@Ottawa.ca or call our office at 613-580-2475..
• Drop-in and speak with Councillor Kelly at his next Open House
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