Mississippi Mills is warning residents and visitors to use extreme caution on the Mississippi River as flows are now more than four times higher than normal for this time of year. According to the Mississippi River Power Corporation, current flows reached approximately 58 cubic metres per second in early August 2026, compared to a seasonal average of about 14. That is a more than 450 percent increase.
The high water comes nearly one week after heavy rainfall over the Civic holiday long weekend, when the watershed received between 65 and 100 millimetres of rain. Environment Canada issued a Yellow Rainfall Warning for the region. The Mississippi Valley Conservation Authority has extended a Water Safety Statement until August 12, 2026, warning that while flooding is not expected, fast-moving water, slippery banks and higher-than-usual flows could create dangerous conditions for recreational activities.
Officials have identified two areas of particular concern: the stretch between the Almonte Old Town Hall bridge and the Upper Falls, and the boat launch at Metcalfe Geoheritage Park, where the dock is closed. The river may appear calm from shore, but currents are significantly stronger than typical summer conditions.
Anyone planning to use the river is urged to wear a lifejacket, stay within their skill level, and consider postponing trips if they are not experienced with high water. Canoe, kayak, paddleboard and small watercraft users should be especially careful.
The Mississippi River Power Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Municipality of Mississippi Mills and operates the Brian J. Gallagher Generating Station on the lower falls in Almonte. The corporation also maintains Metcalfe Geoheritage Park, the waterfront area with the closed boat launch.
