A lack of rain and prolonged heat waves has prompted the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority to declare a Level 3 Low Water Advisory for the Rideau Valley Watershed.
Officials say they met on Monday to discuss conditions and a Level 3 is triggered when rainfall deficits fall below 40% of the long-term average and when streamflows decline to severe low-water thresholds.
They say overall conditions remain significantly below normal and, to date, the Ottawa region has recorded 22 days with temperatures above 30 °C, further contributing to drought impacts.
Residents and businesses across the Rideau Valley Watershed are being strongly encouraged to reduce their overall water use and suspend non-essential water activities until natural supplies begin to recover.
Conservation Authority staff continue to monitor conditions and updates will be issued as conditions warrant.
