Flood concerns on the rise across southern Quebec

Several municipalities in southwestern Quebec are monitoring area rives for potential spring flooding. At this time, only minor impacts are expected. If you live in a flood-prone area, remain vigilant. (Valley Weather Photo)

Some rivers in southwestern Quebec have reached minor flood stage, but the threat is relatively low at the time, with any flooding confined to the immediate shoreline and low-lying areas.

Several waterways in the region are being observed for minor flooding as runoff from the upper Ottawa Valley makes it's way into southwestern Quebec. They include the Ottawa, Rigaud, des Milles Iles and des Prairies Rivers.The good news is that it has been a relatively dry spring, void of any big storms. Rain is forecast Friday and Saturday, but the heaviest precipitation should remain over New England.

At this time several municipalities, including Pierrefonds, Senneville and Ile Bizard have started to prepare in the event of flooding. This includes preparing sandbags, pumps, flood gates and temporary muscle walls. The Village of Senneville has moved into Intervention 2 mode. They have made sandbags available to residents and have established a call centre.

Most computer models have the heaviest rain from this weekend's storm remaining over New England. The GFS is forecasting 18mm for Montreal by 1pm Saturday, with more over the Townships. (Ventusky)

In the province, 12 waterways are under surveillance by Sécurité Publique Québec, with 10 additional waterways in minor flood stage. They include the Ottawa and Rigaud Rivers, as well as Lac des Deux Montagnes. In the latter caae, the level is now at 23.37 metres, minor flood stage is reached at 23.30 metres. In all cases, water levels are fairly stable and well below the historic spring flooding in 2017 and 2019.

Developing low pressure Friday east of the middle Atlantic will move along the eastern seaboard into Maritimes over the weekend. A chilly rain and gusty northeast winds will develop in Montreal Friday, with 10-20mm possible by late Saturday. Much heavier accumulations, in the order of 25-50mm (1-2 inches) are likely in the Eastern Townships, with amounts reaching 75mm (3 inches) over Vermont. A flood watch is in effect in southern Vermont.

The good news for our region is that the Ottawa River basin will be on the far western edge of this storm system, with very little precipitation expected in those locations. Additionally, high pressure will build into the region starting Sunday, with warm and dry weather forecast next week through Wednesday. This will allow water levels to stabilize and even lower in most cases.

Remember, if you live in areas prone to river and spring flooding, remain vigilant and listen to what local authorities and municipalities are advising. Many municipal websites have sections dedicated to spring flooding, with information and contact numbers.