Canada: Heavy flooding continues in Quebec, May 7

Event

Quebec continues to be inundated by heavy rainfall and flooding, as of Sunday, May 7. 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, Quebec and New Brunswick; forecasters predict that rainfall between May 6 and May 7 could total that normally expected in a month. Environment Canada has issued rainfall warnings for 46 districts in Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick. Flooding is expected to peak between Monday, May 8 and Tuesday, May 9.

By Tuesday, May 9, the weather front is expected to reach Nova Scotia, which could also see heavy rainfall.

Context

The government has deployed 400 Canadian Forces personnel on May 6, as emergency workers attempt to assist flooded communities and prevent further damage. Quebec has been the hardest hit by flooding, impacting some 130 communities, with around 850 residents asked to leave their home by authorities. Heavy rainfall throughout the past month – double that normally experienced during April – has resulted in significant flooding. Rivers and streams had already been at high capacity due to heavy snowfall experienced in March.

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.