Low Water

Historically, periods of dry weather and low water levels or drought have been relatively uncommon in Ontario (about every 10-15 years). However, recent studies on changing weather patterns indicate low water levels may become more common, potentially compounded by the province's steadily increasing demands for water.

During the spring and summer of 1999, southwestern and eastern Ontario experienced an extended period of low rainfall and high temperatures. These weather conditions resulted in some of the lowest surface water levels and driest soils recorded for several decades. In order to ensure the province is prepared for low water conditions in the future, a response plan was developed. This plan, The Ontario Low Water Response , is intended to help co-ordinate and support local response in the event of a drought.

A summary, as well as a brochure of the Ontario Low Water Response program has been created to assist Water Response Teams apply the program to their watershed, OLWR Summary and OLWR Brochure.

Conditions Reports

The monthly Conditions Reports provide an update on low water conditions in the province.
View the full Conditions Reports article

Confirmed Conditions Maps

These maps indicate which watersheds are confirmed at Level I, II or III conditions.
View the full Confirmed Conditions Maps article

Indicator Maps

Indicator maps are a geographical representation of current water level conditions and accumulated precipitation but may not reflect specific local conditions.
View the full Indicator Maps article

Indicator Graphs

Indicator Graphs plot monthly values of streamflow or precipitation versus time at a station that has been designated as an indicator of conditions in that geographical location.
NOTE: The Flow graph should be used in conjunction with the Flow Conditions Summary Report.
View the full Indicator Graphs article

Flow Conditions Summary

Flow Conditions Summary. This summary should be used in conjuction with the Indicator Graph for Flow.
View the full Flow Conditions Summary article

Vulnerability Maps

Vulnerability maps provide an indication of potential vulnerability to low water conditions for agriculture, groundwater use, hydroelectric production, etc.
View the full Vulnerability Maps article