As remnants of Hurricane Debby sweep through Quebec, the situation remains critical. The storm has unleashed torrential rainfalls across southern Quebec, resulting in extensive flooding and significant disruptions. By Friday evening, over 220,000 customers were without power, with more than 50,000 of these cases affecting Montreal alone.
The storm, which began impacting the region late Thursday night, is expected to persist for the next 48 hours. Forecasts indicated that Montreal could receive over half of its average August rainfall in just one day. The city has experienced substantial water accumulation, causing the closure of several major roads and flooding under various viaducts. Environnement Canada reported that between 80 and 100 millimeters of rain had fallen across Greater Montreal, exacerbating the situation.
Authorities have urged residents to minimize travel due to the hazardous conditions. Major roadways such as Highway 15 northbound and Highway 40 are particularly affected, with significant water accumulation reported. The Quebec 511 interactive map highlighted numerous major roadblocks around 8 p.m. Friday. While winds are not currently a significant concern, the rain has led to widespread infrastructure challenges.
Emergency services have reported no major collisions so far, but substantial disruptions remain on the highways. The Quebec Provincial Police (SQ) has advised drivers to adjust their speed and use headlights for increased visibility. The storm's impact has also led to event cancellations and venue closures, including the ComediHa! Fest-Québec, which has canceled its outdoor performances, and La Ronde, which has closed its facilities.
The storm's progression is causing logistical challenges beyond Montreal, with significant rainfall also expected in other areas. The closure of Route 112 in Shefford, Estrie, due to damage and flooding on Highway 55 in Sherbrooke are notable examples. Roadways in the region, including a section of Highway 40 near Berthierville, are experiencing flooding, and minor landslides are possible in some areas.
Debby, once a Category 1 hurricane, has been downgraded to a post-tropical storm but continues to bring heavy rain to southern Ontario and Quebec. Environnement Canada has issued rain warnings for areas from Cornwall, Ontario, to Quebec City. Ottawa and Toronto are also bracing for significant rainfall, with Ottawa expecting between 50 and 75 millimeters and Toronto 30 millimeters.
The storm, which made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane, has already resulted in at least seven fatalities in the United States. As Debby moves towards New Brunswick, it is expected to deliver up to 40 millimeters of rain before Saturday morning. The National Hurricane Center in the U.S. confirmed Debby’s transition to a post-tropical cyclone, but its effects continue to be felt across the region.
In response to the increasing frequency of such intense weather events, Montreal is taking steps to enhance its resilience against climate change and improving its infrastructure to handle extreme weather conditions. As the situation evolves, both residents and authorities must navigate the ongoing challenges posed by Storm Debby.
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