Beaches now open in Ottawa and Gatineau
It might not feel like beach weather, but if you're itching for a dip, most public beaches in Ottawa and Gatineau, Que., are now open to the public.
Six beaches run by the National Capital Commission in Gatineau Park were staffed by lifeguards as of Friday. In Ottawa, Mooney's Bay Beach, Westboro Beach and Britannia Beach are now open for swimming between noon and 7 p.m.
East-enders will have to travel a little further for a swim because the Petrie Island Beach is closed until further notice due to the spring flooding.
The flooding has also delayed the opening of the Leamy Lake Beach, with the NCC urging people to stay off it for the time being.
City of Ottawa beaches will remain open until Aug. 25. Beaches do close if high levels of e-coli are found in the water, which is tested each day.
In Gatineau, the O'Brien, Blanchet, Breton, Parent and La Pêche Lake beaches are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Smith Beach is open only to those staying at the Phillipe Lake campground.
The beaches in Gatineau will be open until Sept. 3.
For those who prefer some inland swimming, most City of Ottawa outdoor pools are also now open.
Saturday's forecast includes rain, but sun and warmth should return Sunday and hang around for a few days.
