Communities along the Ottawa River are staying cautious as local flooding has hit a holding pattern.
Whitewater Region Mayor Neil Nicholson says the impact of flooding has been difficult for the township and their Quebec neighbours in Fort Colounge, as elevated water levels have cut off several private roads and damaged unprotected structures.
The most current estimates suggest water levels at reference points between the two communities will remain level or slightly increase in the short term and that the flow from nearby input lakes has peaked for now.
However, that could change quickly with significant rainfall locally or a faster than expected melt of snow and ice further up the Ottawa River basin.
More sandbags are ready for the community thanks to help from staff and students from Opeongo High School and Our Lady of Grace Catholic School.
The township is also being supported by a greater presence from the County of Renfrew’s paramedic team to improve response for homes on impassable roads, and specialized flood mitigation equipment from the non-profit GlobalMedic that will secure the municipal road into Lacroix Bay.
Nicholson says the best thing residents can do is to have a plan ready if they need to evacuate. They should also make sure that sandbags around their homes are properly protecting propane tanks and wells, both of which can be damaged as the water reaches further inland.
Township services, including grading and repairs to local roads, have been impacted but remain available, and Nicholson urges anyone with concerns or who needs assistance to reach out to the township office at 613-646-2282. Choose option 9 if calling with an after-hours request.
(written by Kasey Egan)
