Water management updates

Weather

Rainfall amounts for September and October have contributed to 25-50 % less precipitation compared to the long-term mean. The months of September and October contributed to values that are less than 50-75 mm than the long-term mean. The 5-day forecast suggests a temperature trend above the freezing mark and about 5-10 mm of rain.

Outlook

The extended low amounts of precipitation have decreased flows and water levels at most locations. The most recent rainfall events were spatially variable and not significant. As a result, flows remain below average and receding across the Rideau Canal. The current forecast indicates that water levels and outflows may continue to decline and are subject to change depending on the amount of rain in the forecast.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

The lack of rainfall is resulting in continued water level declines on the Cataraqui Lakes. The lakes remain on average and currently are subject to a gradual seasonal drawdown.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below-average level for this time of year, and water levels are receding. Outflows from Bobs Lake are below average, resulting in lower-than-average water levels on Christie Lake. Flows on the Upper Tay River have been significantly below average and approaching their minimal seasonal flows.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake and Upper Rideau Lake levels are near average level for this time of year. Big Rideau is below long-term average. The outflows from Big Rideau Lake are minimal. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in seasonal range. Flows on the Rideau River have been significantly below average.

Outlook

During the last 3 weeks, the Rideau Canal watersheds have received 50-100% above the normal amount of rain. Water levels were generally higher than normal in advance of the forecasted system as not all watersheds have recovered completely from the last significant rain event. As a result of the widespread system named Tropical Depression Beryl, the watersheds received anywhere between 35-50 mm of rain. The impacts from the above-average amounts of precipitation received remain across the system. Flows and levels are above normal for this time of the year across all locations. The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lakes are above the average for this time of the year and are expected to continue rising.

Tay River

Bobs Lake levels remain above average and are expected to increase. Flows on the lower Tay River are above average and expected to increase. The Rideau Water Management Team will be closely monitoring the changing conditions in this area.

Rideau River

Big Rideau Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Wolfe Lake water levels are above average and currently increasing. Flows are above average for this time of the year and are expected to increase from Smiths Falls to Hogs Back.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for June have been above normal. The 5-day forecast suggests continued average daytime temperatures with 5-15mm of rain.

Outlook

Flows on the Upper Tay River are above average and peaked. The inflows have increased across the system because of rain, and as a result, water levels are increasing and slightly above average. The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

The above-normal rain amounts are resulting in continued water level increase on the Cataraqui Lakes. All lakes are above average and peaked.

Tay River

Bobs Lakes is at an average level for this time of year. Christie Lake levels are below average but stable due to recent rain events.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is at an above average level for this time of year. Outflows were increased from Wolfe Lake. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau are above the long-term average. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.

Weather

Rainfall over the month of April has resulted in total precipitation amounts ranging from 60-100 mm, with significantly higher amounts in the Cataraqui and Crow/Bobs watersheds. This has significantly increased water levels and flows across the Rideau Canal.

Outlook

An additional 10-15 mm of precipitation is expected during the next 5 days. For the most up-to-date watershed conditions, please check the website of your local conservation authority or the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.

Cataraqui River

Lakes from Kingston Mills Lockstation to Newboro Lockstation are near full. Due to the recent rain events, levels are predicted to remain elevated.

Tay River

Bobs Lake levels are above average, above full, are increasing and will continue to do so due to the recent significant rainfall and the forecasted rain. Christie Lake levels are continuing to increase as a result of elevated flows from Bobs Lake. The levels on both lakes will continue to be monitored. Flows on the lower Tay River have peaked but are expected to remain elevated due to forecasted rain.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake and Upper Rideau Lakes are full, and Big Rideau is, on average, below full but expected to rise. Outflows from Big Rideau are being increased. Flows and levels are within the seasonal average and expected to fluctuate with forecasted rain and operational activities scheduled in preparation for the opening of the season.

Weather

Rainfall over the last week of March combined with a significant rainfall event early this week have resulted in total precipitation amounts ranging from 50-80 mm over that time period which have increased water levels and flows across the Rideau Canal.

Outlook

An additional 20 mm of precipitation is expected during the next 5 days. Please check the website of your local conservation authority or the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for the most up-to-date watershed conditions.

Cataraqui River

Lakes from Kingston Mills Lockstation to Newboro Lockstation are near full. Levels are predicted to increase with the continued rainfall.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is near full and will see continued rising water levels, as will Christie Lake. Tay River flows will continue to increase due to the rain.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake and Upper Rideau Lakes are full, and Big Rideau is, on average, below full but expected to rise. Outflows from Big Rideau are being increased. Flows and levels are expected to increase down the Rideau River due to the rain.

Weather

Last week, the passage of a Colorado Low resulted in a significant amount of precipitation amounting to 15-46 mm across all watersheds. The 5-day forecast suggests an estimated 30 mm of rainfall this week. Air temperatures are forecasted to rise this week where the daily high will be in the double digits.

Outlook

The current conditions indicate that water levels will increase due already saturated conditions across the watersheds. The current forecast indicates that water levels and outflows will increase at most locations.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lakes are above the average water levels for this time of year. The outflows are increasing.

Tay River

Bobs Lake level is above the average due to earlier than normal snowmelt. Christie Lake levels are below average but increasing due to recent precipitation event and increased outflows from Bobs Lake.

Rideau River

Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes are near average for this time of year. Wolfe Lake levels are above average. The river reaches between Smiths Falls and Long Island are currently subject to operations in anticipation for the increased flows generated by rain runoff. The flows on the River are below average and expected to increase.

Weather

The 5-day forecast suggests significant amounts of precipitation, reaching 40 mm of rain.

Outlook

The recent early snowmelt accompanied by last weeks rain event amounted to an average of 10 mm of precipitation across the watersheds resulted in above average water levels at most locations. However, below normal snowpack amounts preceding these events resulted in below normal flow values. The current forecast indicates that water levels and outflows will increase at most locations.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lakes are above the average water levels for this time of year. The outflows are increasing.

Tay River

Bobs Lake level is above the average and Christie Lake level is below average.

Rideau River

Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes are above average for this time of year. Wolfe Lake levels are above average. The river reaches between Smiths Falls and Long Island are currently subject to operations in anticipation for the increased flows generated by rain runoff. The flows on the River are increasing.

Weather

Since mid-February, low precipitation amounts and higher than normal air temperatures have resulted in lower than average snow pack accumulation for this time of the year. The 5-day forecast suggests near 10-15 mm of rainfall. Air temperatures are forecasted to rise this week where the daily high will be in the double digits; as the week progress evening lows will tend to stay above 0°C.

Outlook

Snowpack is presently below average. Water management operations to fill the reservoirs began in February. Outflows from the reservoirs have been reduced, taking into account the projected runoff from melting snow in the watershed and normal precipitation in the month of March. With the substantial reduction in the snowpack in the southern areas, most lakes are increasing at a slower rate.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lakes are above average water levels for this time of year and are slowly increasing. Cranberry and Colonel By Lakes water levels are on average for this time of the year.

Tay River

Bobs Lake level is close to seasonal average and Christie Lake level is below average. Bobs Lake outflows are reduced.

Rideau River

Upper Rideau Lake is above average and Big Rideau Lake is near average water levels for this time of the year. Wolfe Lake levels are above average. The river reaches between Smiths Falls and Long Island are currently at seasonal levels. Flows on the River are declining.

Weather

The Weather Network is currently forecasting 45 to 60 mm of mixed snow and rain in the coming days across the Cataraqui River and Rideau River Watersheds. The bulk of this precipitation is anticipated to come Tuesday and Wednesday.

Outlook

The snow on the ground is variable across the Rideau Canal. In general, the amount of snow is below seasonal. The warmer weather, in combination with the forecasted rainfall, will likely generate snowmelt. Flows in the Rideau Canal are anticipated to rise significantly, and water levels are expected to increase in all lakes and river reaches.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average for this time of year and are declining.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are below average for this time of year. Flows on the Tay are below average.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is above average, and outflows have been maximized. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes are near average. Flows on the Rideau River are near average.

Weather

The relatively dry fall conditions with total 3-month precipitation values varying 25 -70% below normal resulted in below-average flows and levels across most watersheds. The precipitation amounts received during the first two weeks of December were localized in nature, with total values close to seasonal averages.

The Weather Network is currently forecasting 20-25 mm of mixed precipitation across the entire Rideau and Cataraqui watersheds. The bulk of this precipitation is anticipated to come in the next 36 hours.

Outlook

The small accumulations of snow on the ground were depleted across the Rideau and Cataraqui Watersheds as a result of the weekend weather with temperatures above zero degrees and 10-15 mm of rain. Flows in the Rideau Canal are anticipated to rise, and water levels are expected to increase in all lakes and river reaches

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Most lake levels are above average for this time of year and increasing after the recent weather event. Water levels are anticipated to increase as a result of the rainfall.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are below average for this time of year. Levels on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake are expected to increase. Flows on the Lower Tay River near Perth are below average and increasing.

Rideau River

Upper Rideau Lake is above average, and Big Rideau Lake levels are below average for this time of the year. Wolfe Lake levels are above average. The river reaches between Smiths Falls and Hogs Back are currently at seasonal levels.

Weather

Significant rainfall occurred over the past week and resulted in total precipitation over that time period of about 50-60 mm, which increased water levels and flows across some locations more than others. Some rainfall forecast is expected over the next five days with a potential accumulation of 30-50 mm and higher in the areas of localized thunderstorm activity.

Outlook

Due to the localized nature of the rain events, some areas have received up to 50% of the normal monthly precipitation in July and up to 150% of normal precipitation over the first two weeks of August. The impacts from the above-average amounts of precipitation received remain across the system. Flows and levels are above normal for this time of the year across all locations.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lakes are above the average for this time of the year however have peaked and appear to be declining.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels remain below average due to the localized nature of the rain events. Flows on the lower Tay River are close to the average and continue to decrease. The Rideau Water Management team will be closely monitoring the changing conditions in this area.

Rideau River

Big Rideau Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Wolfe Lake water levels are above average and currently receding. Flows are above average for this time of the year but crested and are declining from Smiths Falls to Hogs Back.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for May have been below normal, with similar trends being observed for June. The 10-day forecast suggests a transition to high temperatures, with less than 5 mm in the forecast.

Outlook

Despite the wetter-than-normal spring conditions, the sudden shift to the current hot and dry conditions resulted in a quick reduction of local inflows and enhanced the rates of evaporation. As the system quickly transitioned from a surplus state to summer like conditions, water management and operational activities were conducted to appropriately respond to the changes, which resulted in fluctuations across the system.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lake levels in the Cataraqui River system are near or above the average values.

Tay River

Bobs Lakes is below average level. Outflows from Bobs Lake are being managed to ensure the stable flow rate down the Tay River as well as to augment the rate of decline on Big Rideau Lake, which is below average.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is below average, and Upper Rideau Lake is above average due to recent localized rain events. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain within navigation range.

Weather

The total amount of rain expected for the next five days is as high as 50 mm.

Outlook

Flows on the Upper Tay River appear to crest and are receding. The inflows are receding across the system, and as a result, water levels are decreasing.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

All lakes have peaked and appear to be declining. Forecasted rainfall will either level or cause the flows to increase again.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels have peaked and are declining. Inflows in this area appear to be declining. The Rideau Water Management team will be closely monitoring the changing conditions in this area. Flows on the lower Tay River continue to decrease. Significant rainfall will either level or cause the flows to increase again.

Rideau River

Big Rideau Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Wolfe Lake water levels are currently receding. Flows are declining from Smiths Falls to Hogs Back. Forecasted rainfall will either level or cause the flows to increase again.

Weather

The five-day weather forecast predicts no significant precipitation, but air temperatures are expected to reach double digits and remain above zero overnight.

Outlook

With the onset of the snowmelt and the significant amount of rain received coupled with warm temperatures in the forecast, flows and water levels are expected to continue to increase at all locations as the impacts of the rain and melting snow work their way through the system. The remaining snowpack in the Upper Tay Watershed and the northern part of Rideau River will continue to melt, contributing to the increased runoff amounts.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Lakes are increasing as a result of the significant rain event and are above average.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are above average for this time of year. Levels on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake are expected to increase as a result of precipitation and ongoing melt.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Big Rideau Lake levels are above average and expected to increase. All the river reaches from Smith Falls to Burritts Rapids are above seasonal levels due to the ongoing snowmelt, high amount of received rain and high flows and are expected to increase. Levels on the Long Reach are above full and are expected to increase. The flows in the Rideau River are expected to increase and remain high.

Weather

The 5-day forecast is predicting 35-48 mm of rain with air temperatures reaching double digits.

Outlook

In the short term, water levels and flows will increase as a result of the forecasted rain. The remaining snowpack in the Upper Tay Watershed and the northern part of Rideau River will contribute to the increased runoff amounts.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Lakes are increasing due to the remaining snowmelt runoff and are expected to increase with the forecasted amount of rain.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are below average and are increasing and will continue to do so due to the rain and snowmelt. The levels on both lakes will continue to be closely monitored. Flows on the lower Tay River will likely increase.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Big Rideau Lake levels are expected to increase. All the river reaches from Smith Falls to Burritts Rapids are above the seasonal levels. Levels on the Long Reach remain above full and are expected to increase. The flows in the Rideau River are expected to increase as a result of runoff from forecasted rain and snowmelt.

Weather

The five-day weather forecast is predicting up to 43 mm of precipitation.

Outlook

In the short term, water levels and flows will increase as a result of the forecasted amounts of rain. The remaining snowpack in the Upper Tay Watershed and the northern part of Rideau River will contribute to the increased runoff amounts.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Lakes are increasing as a result of the ongoing melt and are expected to increase with the forecasted amount of rain.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are below average for this time of year. Levels on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake are expected to increase as a result of precipitation.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau Lake and Big Rideau Lake levels are expected to increase. All the river reaches from Smith Falls to Burritts Rapids are above seasonal levels due to the ongoing snowmelt and are expected to increase with the forecasted precipitation. Levels on the Long Reach are near full and are expected to increase. The flows in the Rideau River are expected to increase.

Weather

The 5-day forecast suggests no significant precipitation. Air temperatures are expected to remain below 0°C across the entire Rideau and Cataraqui Watersheds.

Outlook

Flows remain elevated after the series of recent events. The fluctuations in levels vary and highly depend on the amount of snow remaining and any significant changes in temperature forecasts.

The snowpack is present and is near average in the southern watersheds and above average north of Smith Falls Basin.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Most lakes are above average water levels for this time of year and are receding.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is on average. The levels on both Bobs and Christie lakes will continue to be monitored. Tay River is near average and receding.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau and Big Rideau are above average and receding. Rideau River is, on average and receding.

Weather

The 5 day forecast suggests 25-30 mm of mixed precipitation, with most of the precipitation falling mainly on Thursday night into Friday morning. Air temperatures are expected to drop significantly on Friday afternoon below 0°C across the entire Rideau and Cataraqui Watersheds.

Outlook

Flows remain high after the series of recent events that amounted to 50- 100 mm of mixed precipitation and snowmelt across the watersheds. The current forecast indicates that water levels and outflows will continue to remain high at most locations. The fluctuations in levels vary and highly depend on the amount of snow remaining and any significant changes in temperature forecasts. The snowpack is present and is below average.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Most lakes are above-average water levels for this time of year and are levelling off. Colonel By Lake water level is on average for this time of the year.

Tay River

Bobs Lake will see continued rising water levels, as will Christie Lake. The levels on both lakes will continue to be monitored, and the balancing of the high water will continue. Tay River appears to have peaked. Flows and levels through Perth will continue to remain elevated.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau and Big Rideau are above average but have peaked. Outflow from Big Rideau has been maximized. Rideau River has peaked and is receding.

Weather

The forecast for Friday and Saturday of this week suggests a low precipitation event of 25 to 35 mm combined with plus temperatures approaching 10 degrees. The warm-up period is estimated to be approximately 7 days in length. The warm spell is expected to be followed by more seasonal temperatures by January 5, 2023

Outlook

Precipitation and warm temperatures will result in snowmelt and runoff and thus impact the watershed response. The current forecast indicates that water levels and outflows will likely increase at all locations. The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be active, and the changing conditions will be closely monitored. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

Most lake levels are above average for this time of year and increasing after the recent weather event. Water levels are anticipated to increase as a result of the rainfall and snow melt.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are near average for this time of year. Levels on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake are expected to increase. Flows on the Lower Tay River near Perth are below average and increasing.

Rideau River

Upper Rideau Lake is above average, and Big Rideau Lakes levels are below average for this time of the year. Wolfe Lake levels are above average, and outflows are maximized. The river reaches between Smiths Falls and Hogs Back are currently at seasonal levels.

Weather

The 14-day forecast suggests continued high temperatures with little to no rainfall in the first six days and some potential rainfall in the seven to 14-day range.

Outlook

Flows on the Upper Tay River are receding. The inflows are receding across the system and as a result water levels are declining.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average for this time of year and are levelling off. Based on the current forecast, the boat draft on the Cataraqui Lakes will remain in range.

Tay River

Bobs Lakes and Christie Lake are below average level for this time of year.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake and Upper Rideau Lake are near the average level for this time of year. Big Rideau is near long term average. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for May and June have been above normal. The 5-day forecast suggests continued average daytime temperatures with 15-25 mm of rain.

Outlook

Flows on the Upper Tay River are above average and increasing. The inflows have increased across the system as a result of rain, and as a result, water levels are increasing and slightly above average.

The Rideau Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority.

Cataraqui River

The above-normal rain amounts are resulting in continued water level increase on the Cataraqui Lakes. All lakes are above average and increasing.

Tay River

Bobs Lakes is slightly above average level for this time of year. Outflows from Bobs Lake will be increased this week which will bring up the water level on Christie Lake and increase the flow rate down the Tay River.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is above average level for this time of year. Outflows will be increased from Wolfe Lake. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau are above long-term average. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.

Weather

The 14-day forecast suggests a high-temperature trend will remain in the system. There is 12-23 mm of rainfall forecasted for the next 5 days. Most of the rainfall forecasted is associated with thunderstorms and could be highly variable from one location to another.

Outlook

The watersheds of the Rideau Canal experienced earlier than normal freshet, which in combination with warmer air temperatures, has resulted in the loss of most of the winter snowpack by late March and the recession of runoff by early April. Given the near normal amount of spring 2022 precipitation and the recent significant rainfall, the flows and levels across the system are elevated. Current forecast suggest the current lake levels to remain near full levels during the month of May, achieving seasonal averages heading into summer. The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring for changing conditions. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The recent rainfall has resulted in above average water levels on the Cataraqui Lakes. Assuming seasonal average precipitation going forward, he lake levels are expected to recede to seasonal averages.

Tay River

Bobs Lake water levels are above average this time of year but receding. Outflows from Bobs Lake have been increased in response to recent rain events. Water levels on Christie Lake are expected to rise to seasonal averages, assuming seasonal average precipitation. Tay River flows are below average for this time of the year and increasing.

Rideau River

Wolfe, Upper Rideau and Big Rideau lakes have water levels that are above average for this time of year. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in standard navigable range. Rideau River flows are above average and public bulletins were issued this week.

Weather

The weather forecast for next 5 days is predicting a moderate mixed precipitation event of 15-25 mm combined with plus temperatures approaching 10 degrees and above zero at night.

Outlook

Rainfall and warm temperatures have, for the most part, primed the snow to be ready to run off. The current forecast indicates that water levels and outflows will likely increase at all locations. The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be active and the changing conditions will be closely monitored. Any watershed conditions updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

Most lake levels are near average for this time of year and slightly increasing due to the ongoing melt. Water levels are anticipated to significantly increase as a result of the rainfall and snow melt.

Tay River

Bobs Lake and Christie Lake levels are near average for this time of year. Levels on Bobs Lake and Christie Lake are expected to increase due to the melt resulting from forecasted rain and warm temperatures.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes levels are above average for this time of the year. The river reaches between Smiths Falls and Hogs Back are currently at seasonal levels and are expected to rise as a result of melt inflows. The flows in Rideau River are near average and expected to increase due to the amounts of precipitation in the forecast combined with ongoing melt.

Weather

The weather forecast for early next week is changing significantly from day to day. A 20 to 30 mm of mixed precipitation event is forecasted across next 5 days.

Outlook

Precipitation amounts for September to December 2021 have contributed to 100-125 % more precipitation relative to normal. Rainfall and warm temperatures earlier in the month have generated active snow melt which, in combination with the above normal precipitation amounts, resulted in raising the flows and water levels across the watersheds. With currently forecasted air temperatures below zero, water levels and outflows are expected to crest and slowly recede at all locations. However, there is a measure of uncertainty associated with this. Depending on the exact amounts of precipitation over the next 5 days, whether it falls as rain or snow and whether air temperature is above or below zero, local snow melt and snow melt runoff may occur, impacting the watershed response. The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are significantly above average for this time of year and are declining.

Tay River

Bobs Lake levels are above normal for this time of year and have peaked due to the recent cold temperatures. Christie Lake level is above average due to high flows from Bobs Lake but is expected to crest with balanced flow recessions from Bobs Lake. The levels on both lakes will continue to be monitored. Flows on the lower Tay River are above average, will likely level and then begin to recede.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is above average and outflows have been maximized. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes are above average. Flows on the Rideau River are above average.

Weather

The 2 day weather forecast is predicting up to 30 mm of precipitation. Most of the rainfall which includes the recorded and forecasted is associated with thunderstorms and varies highly from one location to another.

Outlook

The ongoing hot and dry conditions for the extended period of time have resulted in lower than normal local inflows and enhanced the rates of evaporation. Persistent dryness especially in the areas that missed out on the localized precipitation continues and the overall system remains in below normal summer conditions. Water management and operational activities are conducted to appropriately respond to the changes.

The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average but are increasing as a result of the current rain event. All draft reductions are posted via Notice to Shipping as well as on the water management page.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of year. Outflows from Bobs Lake are increased to compensate for the water level declines associated with enhanced evaporation rates and persistent dry conditions in river reaches and lakes downstream including the Tay River and Big Rideau Lake.

Rideau River

Water levels for Wolfe Lake are above average, Upper Rideau Lake level is on average and Big Rideau Lake is below average level for this time of the year. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for March-May have contributed to 25-55 % less precipitation compared to the long term mean during spring season. The month of May contributed to values that are less than 25-75 mm than the long term mean. The 10 day forecast suggests a transition to high temperatures approaching 30C. There is a potential for 20 mm of rain in this week precipitation forecast. Most of the rainfall forecasted is associated with thunderstorms and could be highly variable from one location to another.

Outlook

The spring of 2021 presented a unique set of challenges for the water management program of the Canal. The early melt and exceedingly dry conditions resulted in the minimal flows experienced since early April until present across the system and the low levels. Every effort is made to ensure that water management decisions are carefully considered, acknowledging Parks Canada’s responsibility to balance the needs of all users in the system.

The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The lack of rainfall and high temperatures is resulting in continued water level declines on the Cataraqui Lakes. Based on the current forecast, the boat draft on the Cataraqui Lakes will decrease. Forecasted draft.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of year and water levels are receding. Outflows from Bobs Lake are below average resulting in lower than average water levels on Christie Lake. Flows on the Upper Tay River have been significantly below average and approaching their minimal seasonal flows.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake and Upper Rideau Lake levels are near average level for this time of year. Big Rideau is near long term average. The outflows from Big Rideau Lake are minimal. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range. Flows on the Rideau River have been significantly below average and approaching their minimal seasonal flows.

Weather

The 7 day forecast is indicating temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius and a moderate precipitation amount of approximately 20 mm.

Outlook

The total precipitation for this past winter was 25 % less than normal values followed by 25-50% less than normal amounts of precipitation in March. The Rideau Canal watersheds of the reservoirs experienced an earlier than normal freshet, which in combination with sustained warmer air temperatures has resulted in the loss of winter snowpack during late March and earlier than normal melt runoff recession. Presuming a normal amount of precipitation throughout the month of April, the public can expect the current lake levels to gradually rise during the month of May, achieving seasonal averages heading into summer. Currently, flows are well below to average and receding across the Rideau Canal Watershed.

The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average for this time of year and are levelling off.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of the year. The public can expect the current lake levels to gradually rise during the months of April and May achieving seasonal averages heading into summer. Christie Lake is below average. Flows on the Tay are below average, have peaked and expected to recede with warmer temperatures.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is below average. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lake levels are below average and levelling off. Flows on the Rideau River are below average and expected to recede.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for May and June have been 25-50% below normal. The 14 day forecast suggests a high temperature trend will remain in the system. There is 25-29 mm of rainfall forecasted for this week. Most of the rainfall forecasted is associated with thunderstorms and could be highly variable from one location to another.

Cataraqui River

The lack of rainfall and high temperatures has resulted in low water levels on the Cataraqui Lakes. Forecasted draft can be found here: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/info/infonet/tirant-deau-draft If the additional rainfall forecasted is received it is possible that levels may increase back up to 5' draft levels.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of year. Outflows from Bobs Lake are being increased this week to manage the flows and levels across the watershed. Water levels on Christie Lake are expected to level off yet are subject to the losses from evaporation and the rainfall received. Tay River flows are below average for this time of the year.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau and Big Rideau have water levels that are below average. Flows from Big Rideau Lake are at minimum. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for May and June have been 25-50% below normal. The 14 day forecast suggests a transition to high temperatures. There is 0 mm of rainfall forecasted for this week and 5 mm forecasted for the following week. Most of the rainfall forecasted is associated with thunderstorms and could be highly variable from one location to another.

Cataraqui River

The lack of rainfall and high temperatures has resulted in low water levels on the Cataraqui Lakes. Forecasted draft can be found here: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/rideau/info/infonet/tirant-deau-draft If the additional rainfall forecasted is received it is possible that levels may increase back up to 5' draft levels.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of year. Outflows from Bobs Lake were decreased last week to try and hold back as much of the rainfall as possible. Water levels on Christie Lake will continue to decline until additional flow is sent out of Bobs Lake.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake, Upper Rideau and Big Rideau have water levels that are below average. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.

Weather

The 7 day forecast is indicating temperatures above zero degrees Celsius and a low precipitation amount of approximately 5 mm.

Outlook

Over the last week the Rideau River watersheds received a total of approximately 25 to 40 mm of rain. The Cataraqui watershed received a total of approximately 45 to 85 mm of rain. This weather resulted in high inflows which have increased water levels on lakes and river reaches. The weather forecast suggests that elevated flows and levels should recede.

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average for this time of year and are levelling off.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of the year. The public can expect the current lake levels to gradually rise during the month of May achieving seasonal averages heading into summer. Christie Lake is on average. Flows on the Tay are on average, have peaked and expected to recede with warmer temperatures and low precipitation.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is below average. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lake levels are close to average and levelling off. Flows on the Rideau River are below average and expected to recede.

Weather

The 7 day forecast is indicating temperatures close to zero degrees Celsius overnight and mixed precipitation amount of approximately 10 mm.

Outlook

The watersheds of reservoirs lakes experienced earlier than normal freshet which in combination with warmer air temperatures has resulted in the loss of the most winter snowpack. Currently flows have peaked and receding across the Rideau and Catarqui watersheds. The weather forecast suggests that flows and levels should remain steady.

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River watersheds have recently received close 50 mm of rain and as a result the lake levels are above average for this time of year and are levelling off.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level. Christie Lake is below average. Flows on the Tay are below average and receding.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake and Upper Rideau lakes are below average. Big Rideau Lake levels are close to average. Flows on the Rideau River are below average.

Weather

The 7 day forecast is indicating temperatures close to zero degrees Celsius and mixed precipitation amount of approximately 10 mm.

Outlook

The watersheds experienced an onset of warm temperatures recently and precipitation received over the last week, totalled approximately 10 to 25 mm of rain. This weather resulted in high inflows which have increased water levels on lakes and river reaches. The weather forecast suggests that elevated flows and levels should remain steady. The snow on the ground is variable across the Rideau Canal. In general, the amount of snow increases as you move North from Lake Ontario. No snow remains in the Cataraqui Watershed while snow amounts in the Rideau Watershed range from low to moderate. The warmer weather in combination with the forecasted rainfall will likely remove all the snow. Flows in the Rideau Canal are anticipated to remain above average and water levels are expected to increase in all lakes and river reaches.

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average for this time of year and are levelling off.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is above average level and levelling off. Christie Lake is above average. Flows on the Tay are above average.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is above average and outflows have been maximised. Upper Rideau is close to its seasonal average and Big Rideau Lake levels are above average and levelling off. Flows on the Rideau River are above average.

Weather

The Weather Network is currently forecasting 50 to 75 mm of rainfall across the Cataraqui River and Rideau River Watersheds. The bulk of this rainfall is anticipated to come Saturday.

Outlook

The snow on the ground is variable across the Rideau Canal. In general, the amount of snow increases as you move North from Lake Ontario. Snow amounts in the Cataraqui Watershed are low while snow amounts in the Rideau Watershed range from low to moderate. The warmer weather in combination with the forecasted rainfall will likely remove all the snow. Flows in the Rideau Canal are anticipated to rise significantly and water levels are expected to increase in all lakes and river reaches.

The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average for this time of year and are declining.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is below average level for this time of year. Christie Lake is near average. Flows on the Tay are about average.

Rideau River

Wolfe Lake is above average and outflows have been maximised. Upper Rideau and Big Rideau Lakes are near average. Flows on the Rideau River are near average.

Weather

Rainfall amounts for July have been at least 50-75 % below normal and spatially localized with the similar trends being observed for August. The 5 day forecast suggests that the above average temperatures will taper off near the end of the week and a small amount (5-10 mm) of precipitation is forecasted. Most of the rainfall which includes the recorded and forecasted is associated with thunderstorms and varies highly from one location to another.

Outlook

The ongoing hot and dry conditions for the extended period of time have  resulted in lower than normal local inflows and enhanced the rates of evaporation. Persistent dryness especially in the areas that missed out on the localized precipitation continues and the overall system remains in below normal summer conditions.  Water management and operational activities are conducted to appropriately respond to the changes.

The Rideau Canal Water Management team will be actively monitoring the changing conditions. Any watershed condition updates will be released by your Conservation Authority. 

Cataraqui River

The Cataraqui River lake levels are near average but are declining due to the continued hot weather and lack of rainfall. All draft reductions will be posted via Notice to Shipping as well as on the water management webpage.

Tay River

Bobs Lake is near average level for this time of year. Outflows from Bobs Lake are increased to compensate for the water level declines associated with enhanced evaporation rates and persistent dry conditions in river reaches and lakes downstream including the Tay River and Big Rideau Lake.

Rideau River

Water levels for  Wolfe Lake are above average, Upper Rideau Lake level is on average and Big Rideau Lake is near average level for this time of the year. Outflows from Wolfe Lake have been increased to slow the rate of decline on Upper Rideau Lake. Levels in the river from Smiths Falls to Ottawa all remain in navigation range.