Gatineau Mayor Urges Residents to Prepare as Floodwaters Rise Along Ottawa River
Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette has issued a strong warning to residents as floodwaters continue to swell along the Ottawa River, with current levels surpassing those forecast for 2025 while remaining below the peaks experienced in 2023. The mayor emphasized the critical need for precautionary measures during a news conference on Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Rising Water Levels and Building Impacts
According to the latest forecasts from the Ottawa River Regulation Planning Board, water levels are expected to rise an additional 30 centimetres by Monday. The city has significantly expanded its list of potentially affected structures, adding 56 buildings to bring the total to 164 properties at risk of flooding over the coming two weeks. The eastern sectors of Gatineau are particularly vulnerable to these rising waters.
"This is why it's very important for citizens to get ready and to have sandbags ready," Mayor Marquis-Bissonnette stated emphatically. "We can just take precaution ... acquire sandbags, prepare adequately. This means doing groceries and having a little more stock at home."
Road Closures and Safety Precautions
The City of Gatineau has identified several roads requiring close monitoring due to flooding risks:
- Access ramps for autoroute 50 Est at rue Saint-Louis
- Rue Campeau
- Rue Carmen
- Rue Saint-Denis
- Rue Saint-Paul
- Rue Saint-Sauveur
- Rue Sanscartier
- Ruelle du Como
City officials have cautioned residents to avoid driving in at-risk areas whenever possible. "If they must be accessed, it is imperative that drivers exercise caution and slow down," the city's release noted. "Fast-moving vehicles generate waves that can cause damage to properties and infrastructure."
Historical Context and Community Response
Mayor Marquis-Bissonnette acknowledged that Gatineau residents are familiar with flood risks, having experienced significant flooding events in 2017, 2019, and 2023. "They've seen flooding in 2017, the one in 2019, 2023," she explained. "So, they know that they are at risk. It means something to the people of Gatineau because they have been through this."
The mayor also addressed the psychological impact of repeated flooding events, encouraging residents to seek mental health support through the 811 helpline if needed. "There's a lot of anxiety associated with flooding," she acknowledged, recognizing the emotional toll these events take on the community.
Current Situation and Future Projections
While water levels may begin stabilizing on Tuesday, authorities expect them to remain elevated for several days. The city continues to provide sandbags to residents and maintains that the situation remains under control for now. When questioned about declaring a state of emergency, Mayor Marquis-Bissonnette responded, "For now, the situation is under control for us. We strongly encourage people to prepare adequately, and we will inform the public of any changes that warrant public communication."
Despite the rising waters, no evacuation orders have been issued at this time. However, authorities emphasize that residents in low-lying areas must remain vigilant and implement necessary precautions to protect their properties and ensure personal safety as the Ottawa River continues to swell beyond typical seasonal levels.
