Canada: State of emergency in Montréal through May 9 (flooding) /update 1

Event

The city of Montréal declared a 48-hour state of emergency on Sunday, May 7, amid severe flooding (caused by heavy rainfall and melting snow) that is supposed to peak sometime May 8 or 9. Across Québec, more than 2000 homes have reportedly been flooded and a search is ongoing for a missing man and toddler. The Canadian military has deployed roughly 1200 troops to the region to assist in response efforts. Evacuation orders are in effect for parts of some of the 126 cities and towns impacted by floods in the province.

Context

Heavy rainfall throughout the past month – double the historical average experienced during April – has resulted in significant flooding. Rivers and streams had already been at high capacity due to heavy snowfall experienced in March. Eastern Ontario and British Columbia are also experiencing flooding, with a risk of landslides.

A slow-moving low-pressure system remains over most of Eastern Ontario, Québec and New Brunswick. By Tuesday, May 9, the weather front is expected to reach Nova Scotia, which could also see heavy rainfall.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, to avoid areas directly hit by flooding, and to adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous – 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult – and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs disposed of.