Flooding forces complete closure of Highway 13 in Dorval

Highway 13 remains completely closed in Dorval, Que., due to significant flooding caused by the remnants of tropical storm Debby that drenched the southern part of Quebec on Friday. 

The heavy rainfall damaged the Dorval tunnel's pumping station and led to severe water accumulation, forcing the closure of the highway between Highway 40 and 520 for an indefinite period of time. 

Transport Québec spokesperson Gilles Payer said Monday he expects the highway to reopen no earlier than Wednesday. 

"It's a big challenge," Payer said ."You cannot change all the infrastructures in a few days because these structures have been there for decades." 

In a news release Sunday evening, Quebec's Transport Ministry said efforts are underway to set up a temporary pumping system to handle further accumulations of water, which could lead to accidents.

In the meantime, the government is asking road users to avoid the area and opt for public transportation or remote work when possible.

For essential travel, motorists are advised to use Highway 40 and 520. People are also encouraged to check Québec 511 for updates before travelling.