Friday’s storm was one for the record books in Montreal and across Quebec, as it shattered rainfall records and caused widespread damage.
According to Environment Canada, the storm brought a total of 72.6 millimeters of rain to Montreal, breaking the previous record of 63.6 millimeters set in 1974. This amount of rain is equivalent to about three months’ worth of precipitation in just one day.
The heavy rainfall caused flooding in many areas, with some streets and basements completely submerged. The city’s sewer system was also overwhelmed, leading to backups and further damage.
In addition to the record-breaking rainfall, strong winds were also reported, reaching speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour in some areas. This caused trees to topple over, power outages, and damage to buildings and vehicles.
The storm was not limited to Montreal, as other parts of Quebec also experienced extreme weather conditions. In Gatineau, a tornado touched down, causing significant damage to homes and buildings. In the Laurentians, heavy rain and strong winds led to road closures and power outages.
Emergency services were kept busy throughout the day, responding to numerous calls for assistance. Fortunately, there were no reports of serious injuries or fatalities.
The storm serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. Residents are advised to have emergency kits ready and to stay informed about weather updates and warnings.
Cleanup efforts are currently underway in affected areas, and authorities are urging caution as there may still be hazards present. The city of Montreal has also set up a hotline for residents to report any damage or request assistance.
As the storm passes and the damage is assessed, it is clear that Friday’s weather event will go down in history as one of the most severe in Montreal and Quebec.
