Forecast improves for parts of Quebec
Premier’s fingers are crossed that hardest-hit areas will dodge worst of weekend rain
MONTREAL— The situation in floodstricken Quebec appeared to improve slightly on Friday as the provincial government reported a drop in water levels in some areas and downgraded a forecast for weekend rain.
But water levels are still expected to rise in the central Quebec region of Mauricie and they remain high in some large lakes, Environment Minister David Heurtel told a news conference.
He said the Mauricie region will likely get 20 to 25 millimetres of rain over the weekend, less than half of the 59 millimetres officials had feared earlier this week.
“Our models nevertheless indicate an increase (in water levels) but not as large as expected,” he said.
Premier Philippe Couillard said he was hoping the situation wouldn’t deteriorate over the weekend.
“We will breathe a sigh of relief on Monday if we haven’t had massive rain and heavy overflow,” he said at the sidelines of an event in Montreal. “In the meantime, we’re crossing our fingers.”
More than 4,480 residences have been affected by flooding and over 3,600 people have been evacuated.
The city of Rigaud, west of Montreal, warned that citizens who refuse the town’s evacuation order could face fines of up to $5,000.
Mayor Hans Gruenwald Jr. said about 19 people have refused to leave their homes and have been notified that they could face penalties.
“They’re being told something by their community and they have to listen, and if they don’t there are consequences,” he told reporters.
Public Security Minister Martin Coiteux said that compensation for flood victims will be reviewed and likely increased in some areas.
“We’re preparing the recovery phase that will start earlier in the western areas (of the province),” he said.
As floodwaters continued to recede in Montreal, fire Chief Bruno Lachance warned citizens of the dangers they could face when returning home.
“There are still some risks in the homes, (such as) electrical risks, natural gas, structure,” he said, adding residents should contact the city for help with inspections.
The Ontario government said Friday it has activated one of its disaster assistance programs and individuals and businesses may be eligible for aid in dealing with the effects of flooding.