Forecast for 2026-04-22

River conditions forecasts posted on 2026-04-22 by Ottawa River Regulating Committee

Water levels and flows have stabilized between Pembroke and Lake Deschenes and are stabilizing between Gatineau-Hull and Carillon at levels 5 to 15 cm below peaks experienced on May 4 and 5, 2023.  With moderate temperatures forecast and no major precipitation expected in the next few days, spring runoff from the central unregulated portion of the basin is expected to gradually decrease over the coming week. During the same period, increasing spring runoff from the partially regulated Abitibi-Timiskaming area will gradually make its way down the main stem of the Ottawa River, with water levels and flows between Mattawa and Pembroke expected to continue increasing until they stabilize later on.  Minor flood levels in Mattawa could be exceeded starting tomorrow afternoon (Thursday). Our website Forecasts section provides expected water levels over a four-day horizon in several areas. Note that uncertain weather factors and measurements of basin conditions play into preparing forecasts. The rate of decline in flows and levels from Lake Coulonge to Carillon over the coming weeks will depend on weather.  Risk of further increase in levels in late April and early May due to high spring runoff from the northern portion of the basin is higher from Mattawa to Lake Coulonge.