Ottawa recorded its wettest day of 2025, but experts warn drought effects remain; communities and farmers still face water shortages.
Heavy Rain Breaks Ottawa’s Dry Spell
After weeks of parched conditions, Ottawa residents hauled out rain gear Thursday as the city recorded 34.6 millimetres of rain at the airport. This single-day total is nearly three times the rainfall recorded in all of August to that point, making it the wettest day of 2025. Meteorologist Steven Flisfeder notes the rainfall represents roughly a quarter of all summer precipitation, yet the season remains the eighth driest since 1939.
Fire Bans Adjusted in Some Areas
Several communities, including Pembroke and Petawawa, lifted fire bans following Thursday’s rainfall. Other regions, such as Kingston, maintained restrictions, citing insufficient rainfall. The South Nation Conservation Authority, covering parts of Ottawa and eastern Ontario, continues to enforce a Level 3 low water advisory, the most severe level, indicating water levels have not recovered.
Farmers Still Face Drought Challenges
For most crops, Thursday’s rainfall is not enough to reverse drought stress. Trevor Hadwen, agro-climate specialist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, said fruits remain the most vulnerable, while cereal grains and grasses are slightly more resilient. “Even with the rainfall, that water hasn’t really penetrated deep soil moisture profiles, and certainly not the groundwater,” Hadwen said.
Steady Showers Needed More Than One-Off Rain
Experts stress that prolonged, consistent rainfall is more effective than sudden heavy showers following a dry spell. Hadwen explained that sustained precipitation would provide real relief for soil and water reserves, unlike isolated events.
Farmers Appreciate Relief but Remain Cautious
Bob Hobson of Mountain Orchards near Kemptville noted that the rainfall improved conditions for apples, thanks to extensive irrigation networks. However, Hobson warned that climate unpredictability still poses risks. “When trees go under stress, there’s always a price to pay. You have to have a good attitude if you want to be a farmer,” he said, highlighting the ongoing challenges despite temporary relief.
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