Friday’s extraordinarily strong rain in Montreal broke a long-standing record. Data from Environment Canada shows the city got 157 millimeters of rain, above the November 1996 record. Two meteorological systems converging—the leftovers of tropical storm Debby and a low-pressure system derived from the Great Lakes region—attribute to this amazing degree of precipitation.
This precipitation also affected other areas outside Montreal. For instance, Gatineau had between 70 and 100 millimeters of rain, but Ottawa accumulated around 76 millimeters by Friday night. Toronto was expected to have a relatively mild 25 to 50 millimeter rainfall.
The leftovers of the storm are expected to keep Eastern Canada inundated with heavy rain. Particularly, New Brunswick is expected to have an extra 40 to 60 millimeters of rain until Saturday AM.
Authorities and citizens are both concerned about the record-breaking rainfall. Meteorologist François Légaré of Environment Canada underlined the importance of this occurrence. He said, “This is a lot of rain for one daily cycle. It can cause localized floods and strain drainage systems.”
The heavy precipitation has indeed produced issues in many different spheres. Reports of flooding in certain Montreal areas have resulted in traffic disturbances and road closures. Residents have been advised to use caution and cut off needless travel.
Moreover, the downpour presents a big difficulty for public services and infrastructure. City of Montreal spokesman Jean-Pierre Brabant admitted the difficulty sewer systems had managing huge amounts of water. “Our teams are working nonstop to maintain the cities safe and functional,” Brabant said.
In reaction to the heavy rain, local officials are advising citizens to exercise required safety measures. Montreal’s Public Safety Department has encouraged residents to avoid basement activities, clean drains, and be updated about weather updates from credible sources.
Although the heavy rain has caused difficulties and annoyance, it has also made Montrealers resilient. Mayor Valérie Plante said, “I am proud of our citizens for their cooperation during this intense rain event.” The responses from city dwellers pleased her. Our city will recover as we have done many times before.
Government organizations and local communities are collaborating to lessen the effects as Eastern Canada works through the aftermath of this deluge of rain. This rainfall’s record-breaking character reminds us of the need to be ready and flexible in the face of ever-changing meteorology.
