The Cataraqui Conservation Authority has extended a water safety statement for the Brockville region until April 23, 2026, due to high water flows caused by recent heavy rainfall.
Between April 12 and April 15, 2026, the region received between 15 and 50 millimetres of rain. This precipitation, combined with more rain expected through April 18, has saturated the ground and limited its ability to absorb further water. As a result, flow rates in local creeks have risen to between 1.5 and 3 times their normal levels for this time of year.
While officials report that widespread flooding is not expected, they warn that localized inundation of low-lying areas is possible. Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution and keep a safe distance from all dams, including their inflow and outflow channels, as well as fast-flowing watercourses, hydroelectric stations, and slippery shorelines. It is important for the public to obey all warning signs and stay away from booms, buoys, and other safety barriers.
In addition to the water safety notice, Southeast Public Health issued an advisory on April 14, 2026, regarding drinking water safety. Residents whose wells have been impacted by floodwaters or surface water ponding are advised to boil their water for at least one minute at a rolling boil before consuming it. Alternatively, they should use an alternate safe water source until testing confirms the water is safe to drink.
Water managers are continuing to monitor conditions and adjust discharge levels to manage the excess water moving through the system. Although these adjustments are being made, officials emphasize that water management cannot entirely prevent flooding.
