The Ottawa River at the waterfront in Pembroke.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry is monitoring water levels in the Ottawa Valley.
A water safety statement has been issued for the Pembroke District. This statement will remain in effect until Thursday, April 14th unless updated prior. A water safety statement indicates that high flows, melting ice or other factors could be dangerous for such users as boaters, anglers and swimmers but flooding is not expected.
The Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry says that residents in Renfrew County should be aware that ice on area lakes is now unsafe and water levels and flows in lakes and rivers are gradually increasing due to warmer temperatures, precipitation and remaining snow melting.
The province says ice beak up and an increase in water levels on the Ottawa River are expected over the next several days. Over the past several weeks, cooler than normal temperatures, lower than average precipitation levels, and gradually melting of snowpack have resulted in below average lake and river levels. Based on the current forecast and remaining snowpack conditions in the northern portions of the watershed, some increase in flow level is expected for the Ottawa River over the coming week.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)