Parts of Quebec Experience Flooding and School Closures Due to Rainy, Warm Weather

Rain and record warm weather caused multiple Quebec rivers to overflow on Monday, resulting in class cancellations, road closures, and evacuations in various parts of the province.

Authorities in Drummondville, Que., urged residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate due to the rising St-François river, which was flowing at about five times its average speed.

“Given the ongoing increase in water levels of the St-François river, the Drummondville municipal civil security organization is requesting immediate evacuation of all citizens residing in flood-prone zones, if they have not already done so,” stated the municipality on its Facebook page.

Images shared by the municipality online depicted a red car partially submerged in water and roads blocked with barricades.

In Beauceville, Que., officials called off classes and set up an evacuation center at a local arena after an ice jam led the Chaudière river to overflow into nearby streets. By 11 a.m., several evacuations had been carried out, as reported on the city’s website without elaborating.

The Quebec government reported moderate flooding at three of its water monitoring stations by 1 p.m., along with four cases of minor flooding. Additionally, 13 areas were under surveillance.

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According to Environment Canada, various regions in the province experienced record-high temperatures on Sunday, with measurements reaching 20.1 C in Beauceville and 16.4 C in Montreal.

On Transport Quebec’s traffic monitoring platform, closures related to flooding were reported in the Chaudière-Appalaches, Estrie, and Laurentides-Lanaudière regions. The site highlighted that warm temperatures and precipitation statewide were contributing to “rapid snowmelt and water accumulation on roads,” warning of hydroplaning risks.

Numerous other municipalities confirmed on Monday that they were closely monitoring the rising water levels and were ready to act if required.

In Yamaska, northeast of Montreal, municipal officials deployed hovercrafts on Lac St-Pierre and the Yamaska river to create a clear pathway for water flow as ice jams stranded multiple residents.

Authorities in Weedon, Que., 155 kilometers south of Quebec City, advised residents to prepare for potential flooding by relocating belongings to higher areas in their homes and securing outdoor items that could be swept away. The town also recommended residents pack essentials and ensure easy access to vehicles in case evacuation becomes necessary.