UPDATE: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Ended For Cities In Canada
UPDATE: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Ended For Montreal And Other Cities In Canada
Introduction
Severe weather events can have a significant impact on communities, infrastructure, and daily life. In recent years, Montreal and other cities in southern Quebec have experienced intense thunderstorms, bringing strong winds, hail, and heavy rain. Let’s delve into the details of these weather events.
June 16, 2022: A Day of Intense Storms
On June 16, 2022, a series of severe thunderstorms swept through southern Quebec, affecting Montreal and surrounding areas. Here are the key points:
- Warnings Issued: Environment Canada issued warnings for strong winds, hail, and heavy rain. Residents were advised to stay indoors and take necessary precautions.
- Hailstones the Size of Baseballs: During the storm, hailstones as large as baseballs (6.35 cm) were reported. These large hailstones can cause damage to vehicles, roofs, and crops.
- Rainfall: Within just a few hours, Montreal received approximately 60 mm of precipitation. The sudden downpour led to minor flooding in some areas.
- Tornado Activity: Radar data indicated tornado-like activity near Mont-Laurier in the Laurentians. However, confirmation awaited damage assessment.
July 13, 2023: Another Severe Thunderstorm
Fast forward to July 13, 2023, when another severe thunderstorm hit the Greater Montreal area. Here’s what happened:
- Tornado Touchdown: Environment and Climate Change Canada confirmed that a tornado touched down near Mirabel airport. Tornadoes can be extremely destructive, with strong winds capable of uprooting trees, damaging buildings, and causing power outages.
- Lifting of Warnings: By 8 p.m., all tornado warnings and watches had been lifted across the province. Authorities closely monitored the situation to ensure public safety.
How does Montreal prepare for severe weather events?
- Infrastructure Improvements: Montreal has been working on improving its infrastructure to handle extreme weather. For instance, Dickie-Moore Park in Parc-Extension acts as a sponge, directing rainwater into the storm sewer system1.
- Record Rainfall: On July 13, 2023, almost 39 millimeters of rain fell in Montreal, with up to 85 millimeters reported in the worst-hit areas. Six underpasses were closed due to flooding, and around 300 trees were damaged. City workers are cleaning up the streets, but the impact was significant1.
- Previous Storms: In 1997, Montreal received 34 millimeters of rain on July 13. A decade earlier, heavy rainfall (57.4 mm) caused chaos and even led to a fatality. After an ’87 storm, an 80-year-old man died when his submerged car failed to get through an underpass near Highway 15 and Metropolitan Blvd1.
- Tornadoes: Environment Canada confirmed one tornado hit Mirabel on July 13, 2023, and two more are being evaluated. When tornado warnings are issued, seek shelter in the lowest part of your home, preferably a basement, away from windows and sharp objects2.
- Citizen Responsibility: Citizens can help by avoiding emptying pools during heavy rain to prevent additional water runoff1. Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Conclusion
Severe thunderstorms are a natural part of our climate, but their impact can be mitigated through preparedness, timely warnings, and community resilience. Stay informed about weather updates and follow safety guidelines during such events.
