The aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby has left several municipalities in Quebec facing months of cleanup and recovery efforts.
The storm, which made landfall in the province on Monday, brought heavy rain and strong winds, causing widespread damage and power outages.
According to the latest reports, over 100,000 homes and businesses were left without electricity, with some areas experiencing flooding and road closures.
The municipalities of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Sainte-Marie-de-Beauce, and Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue were among the hardest hit, with many residents forced to evacuate their homes.
In Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, the Richelieu River overflowed, causing significant flooding in the downtown area. Mayor Alain Laplante declared a state of emergency and urged residents to stay away from the affected areas.
In Sainte-Marie-de-Beauce, strong winds uprooted trees and damaged buildings, leaving debris scattered throughout the town. Mayor Gaétan Vachon stated that it could take months to fully clean up the damage.
Meanwhile, in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, the storm caused a landslide that damaged several homes and forced the closure of a major road. Mayor Paola Hawa assured residents that the city is working diligently to address the situation and provide support to those affected.
The Quebec government has also stepped in to assist with the cleanup efforts, with Premier François Legault promising financial aid to affected municipalities.
In addition, the Canadian Red Cross has set up emergency shelters and is providing support to those who have been displaced by the storm.
As the cleanup and recovery efforts continue, officials are urging residents to stay vigilant and follow any safety precautions put in place.
The remnants of Tropical Storm Debby may have caused significant damage, but the resilience and determination of the affected communities will undoubtedly help them overcome this challenging time.
