A Flood Warning remains in effect for the Lake Nipissing Shoreline, La Vase River downstream of Lakeshore Dr, Parks Creek, and the Mattawa River downstream of Hurdman Dam. The Watershed Conditions Statement- Flood Outlook remains in effect for the remainder of the watershed.
“Increased flows on the Ottawa River are impacting the water levels on the Mattawa River. Water levels on the Mattawa River have exceeded the major flood threshold of 154.8 metres. To put this in historical context, the April 29 reading was the 7th highest daily average recorded since 1918, about 79 cm lower than 2019, which ranked 4th,” said Angela Mills, NBMCA Flood Duty Officer. “Ongoing snowmelt in the northern parts of the watershed is likely to sustain high flows over the coming days.”
On Lake Nipissing, water levels at North Bay are currently 10 centimetres above the maximum non-damage elevation, with snowmelt continuing in the northern watersheds. These elevated water levels directly affect water levels in the La Vase River downstream of Lakeshore Drive and in Parks Creek. The April 29 reading on Lake Nipissing ranked as the 9th highest daily average since 1933.
The Parks Creek Backflood Control Structure is operational, keeping water levels lowered in the Parks Creek watershed. Eva Wardlaw Conservation Area is closed to the public while operations remain ongoing.
Looking ahead, minimal precipitation is forecast for the next 4 days. Cool, dry conditions will slow the continued melt from northern watersheds.
Residents are asked to keep children and pets away from shorelines and watercourses, and to avoid driving through flooded areas wherever possible. For flood emergencies, contact your local municipality. Residents of unincorporated townships should contact the Ministry of Natural Resources – North Bay District.
NBMCA staff will continue to monitor conditions as part of the Authority's Flood Forecasting and Warning Program and will issue updates as needed.
Current flood status and condition updates are available at nbmca.ca, on X (@theNBMCA), Facebook (@theNBMCA), and Instagram (@nbmcainfo).
This message is in effect until Thursday May 8, 2026, at 4:00 PM EDT.
Please note: NBMCA is responsible for local flood forecast and warning program within its jurisdiction, covering communities from North Bay and Callander to Mattawa. Where a Conservation Authority has not been established, the local MNR District Office is responsible for local Flood Forecast and Warning programs, including along the Ottawa River, see
NBMCA cannot assist with active flood response and does not control water levels or operate dams, our watershed is largely natural with very few control structures. The Parks Creek Backflood Control Structure, which prevents Lake Nipissing from flooding upstream into Parks Creek, is the one exception. Where a Conservation Authority has not been established, the local MNR District Office is responsible for Flood Forecast and Warning programs, including along the Ottawa River. MNR Flood Forecast and Warning.
CONTACT:
Angela Mills, Flood Duty Officer, cell: 705-497-4668
Paula Loranger, Community Relations Coordinator, cell: 705-494-5115