Quebec Spring Floods: State of Emergency and Bridge Closures

Gatineau, Quebec – The Pont de l’île Mercier remains closed as spring flooding continues to affect the Outaouais region, with water levels rising due to rapid snowmelt and heavy rainfall across western Quebec. Authorities have confirmed the bridge will stay shut until further notice, citing safety concerns and ongoing monitoring of the Ottawa River’s elevated flow.

The closure, first announced by TVA Nouvelles on April 20, 2026, follows a surge in water levels that prompted multiple municipalities, including Gatineau and the Pontiac regional county municipality, to activate emergency protocols. According to Ville de Gatineau, a temporary services centre has been opened to assist residents impacted by the flooding, offering information, sandbag distribution, and coordination with emergency responders.

La Presse reported that the Pont de l’île Mercier, a key artery connecting Île Mercier to the mainland, is being monitored hourly by municipal engineers and provincial civil safety teams. No reopening timeline has been provided, as officials prioritize assessing structural integrity and upstream water movement before allowing pedestrian or vehicular traffic to resume.