The Municipality of Mansfield-et-Pontefract informs residents that, due to the rapid rise in water levels observed on the Ottawa River and the Coulonge River, the measures outlined in the Municipal Emergency Measures Plan have been officially activated for some days.
This decision was made because of the high level of uncertainty in current hydrological forecasts, which indicate a sustained upward trend in water levels. Municipal authorities consider it essential to activate coordination and response mechanisms now to ensure resident safety and protect taxpayers’ properties.
According to today’s forecasts:
- Lake Coulonge is expected to reach 108.15 m on Friday
- Forecasts for Saturday and Sunday indicate levels could reach up to 108.30 m over the weekend
Current hydrological forecasts carry a high degree of uncertainty, and exceeding flooding thresholds at Lake Coulonge (Ottawa River) over the coming week cannot be ruled out.
Measures Activated Under the Emergency Plan
- Activation of the municipal coordination cell, ensuring continuous monitoring of the situation
- Increased surveillance of water levels and river flows
- Mobilization of municipal personnel in at-risk sectors
- Availability of material resources, including sandbags, sand, and necessary equipment
- Enhanced communication with residents to ensure rapid and reliable information sharing
Roads Typically Flooded at the Forecasted Levels
- Thomas-Lefebvre Road at the Wharf
- Thomas-Lefebvre Road between civic numbers 270 and 278
- Esprit Road
- Léonard Road up to civic number 221
- Pearson Road
- Chemin de la Passe up to civic number 122
Monitoring Water Levels in Real Time
Residents can monitor water levels and forecasts at the following official sources:
- Ottawa River – Forecasts and Levels: https://rivieredesoutaouais.ca/
- Vigilance – Québec Ministry of Public Security: https://vigilance.geo.msp.gouv.qc.ca/
Sandbags and Volunteer Support
For residents wishing to take preventive measures, sand and sandbags are available at the municipal quarry, located at:
📍 32, chemin du Lac de la Truite, Mansfield-et-Pontefract
If volunteers wish to offer their time, or if residents currently affected — or likely to be affected — require sandbags, they are invited to contact the department coordinator at:
📞 613-401-7925
or to go directly to the municipal quarry.
The municipality thanks residents for their vigilance and cooperation. Continuous monitoring is underway, and any new information will be communicated promptly.
