Warmer temperatures, heavy rainfall this week prompt concerns about flooding
20 to 30 millimetres of rain expected for southern Quebec by Wednesday
Southern Quebec is inching closer and closer to spring, as significantly warmer weather is in the forecast for the rest of the month — but with it comes heavy rain this week.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the southern parts of the province, including Montreal, the Laurentians and the Quebec City area, warning of potential flooding and fog.
From Monday to Wednesday, those regions will see a warm front, with temperatures hovering between 4 C and 11 C.
Residents can expect between 20 and 30 millimetres of rain during that time, according to the weather agency.
800 sandbags in Dorval
After many homeowners in Montreal's West Island got flooded last spring, the City of Dorval says it's taking precautions to ease people's minds over the coming days.
It has 800 sandbags available. Residents can call 514-633-4046 to request them.
"Last year, at peak time, we had 500 sandbags. So we have 300 more than we had last spring," said Dorval Mayor Edgar Rouleau. "We're ready to supply bags to anybody who needs some."
Those who are more at risk are homeowners with an inclined driveway.
Dorval has about 120 blue-collar workers patrolling the area until the rain stops, but Rouleau says the risk of flooding is low.
"The lake can take it right now, but we're monitoring it," Rouleau said. "We wanted to be proactive. We don't want our citizens to suffer again."
Icebreakers and freezing rain
The rain isn't the only sign spring is on its way. The Canadian Coast Guard advised residents living near the St. Lawrence River that ice-breaking activities between the municipality of Saint-Pierre-les-Becquets and Sorel start Monday.
In Quebec City, that rain could turn to freezing rain on Tuesday, Environment Canada says. There might also be reduced visibility due to mist or fog.
"The rain combined with the runoff from the melting of snow could cause localized flooding," Environment Canada said.
With files from CBC reporter Kate McKenna