The Municipality of Mansfield-et-Pontefract issued a press release earlier this afternoon (May 3) advising residents that the levels on the Ottawa River have surpassed the 2017 levels and they are now currently in "evacuation mode".

"The level of the Ottawa River has made municipal infrastructures dangerous and large areas inaccessible," the statement reads. "For those who are isolated and affected by the current disaster, please contact the municipal office to communicate your needs and relocation plans. It is important that you do not remain isolated during this situation as emergency services will not be able to reach you in a timely manner should the situation arise."

Mayor Sandra Armstrong gave an update just after 3 p.m. on Wednesday's situation.

The municipality's stock of sandbags is currently running low, and volunteers can help out at the municipal sand pit (32 chemin du Lac de la Truite). Stockpiles of sand and empty bags have been placed in the communities of Davidson and La Passe for residents as well. The statement also notes that it appears that the southern portion of the Coulonge River is rising as well, though it hasn't reached the peak levels seen on April 19. It also lists the roads currently inaccessible.

The municipality is asking residents of the St-Camille sector to reduce their water usage to reduce the amounts flowing into the area's sewer system.

The following are the levels on the Ottawa River as of this afternoon:

Level May 3 (1 p.m.): 1o8.53 m (up from 108.28 m yesterday)
Level reached in 2017 : 108.52m
Level reached in 2019 : 109.17m
Level predicted for Thursday May 4: 108.75m

The municipal office can be reached at 819-683-2944 ext. 221.

The full interview with Armstrong is available below: