The Ministry of Natural Resources– Pembroke District is advising area residents that a Flood Warning remains in effect for areas along the Ottawa River from Pembroke to Arnprior, most noticeably in the Westmeath area, through Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (if not updated/replaced).
Water levels remain high on the Ottawa River. Although levels are currently stabilizing or even reducing, it is important to continue to monitor local conditions, as freshet continues to unfold in the northern portions of the watershed.
Residents that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past, should take necessary action to protect/secure any vulnerable property in proximity to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions and regularly check for updated messages.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions, further updates will be issued as appropriate.
Description of Weather System
Daytime temperatures are consistently between 5 to 20 degrees. Nighttime temperatures are expected to be between 0 and 10 degrees, with warmer temperatures expected later in the week.
Precipitation is expected throughout the week, bringing rainfall amounts of 25mm or less depending on how the systems behave.
The MNR continues to closely monitor local lakes, rivers and weather conditions.
Levels and flows on the Ottawa River from Pembroke to Arnprior are expected to remain elevated due to spring runoff from the central and northern parts of the basin as well as continued warm temperatures. The snowpack melt in the northern part of the basin is expected to continue over the next week.
Flooding in low-lying areas is expected, and those areas currently experiencing high water levels or flooding can expect these conditions to continue. A close watch of local weather forecasts, special weather statements, and warnings is recommended.
Aaron Foss, Pembroke District Office, 613-291-3613
