Quebec spring floods remain under control, premier says as dozens of municipalities affected

Premier Christine Fréchette says flooding across Quebec is manageable for now, with crews ready if conditions worsen. (CTV News)

The spring flooding situation across several regions of the province is worrying but remains under control, Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette said Sunday.

At a news conference in Saint‑Eustache, Fréchette—accompanied by Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière—said teams on the ground are ready to mobilize if conditions worsen.

As of about 2:30 p.m., officials reported eight moderate floods affecting 44 municipalities, 28 minor floods and 17 bodies of water under surveillance.

Fréchette added that cooler temperatures and lower-than-forecast precipitation have helped avoid more dangerous flooding.

Officials said about 22 people have been evacuated so far, while 124 have been affected by rising water levels.

Fréchette identified four critical regions under close watch: Quebec City, Argenteuil, Outaouais and Lanaudière.

She said she has been in contact with local mayors and offered the province’s full support to help them “face” the situation.

“We are seeing that spring floods are unfortunately part of our reality because of climate change. We now see frequent spring flooding episodes. It is important for us to take action,” Fréchette said.

“What I can see is that people are being active and coordinating their actions between municipalities.”

In a message to residents, the premier urged people to stay informed, noting the situation could evolve rapidly, and to follow instructions if conditions worsen.

Environment Canada issued a storm surge warning for Quebec City on Sunday morning, with higher-than-normal water levels expected along the coast at high tide Monday morning.

Lafrenière said the situation in Île Mercier is “specific” because only one bridge provides access to the residential island.

“We are talking about many seniors living on the island. We’ll see how it goes. We still have about 10 inches of water that can fall without causing a commotion,” he said.

“But I am working with the mayor and the fire chief, and we will put measures in place on whether or not to evacuate people — help them out if they need, for instance, to go to the hospital. That is my main concern.”

The City of Montreal said it will close de l’Anse-à-l’Orme Road as of 5 p.m. between de Senneville Road and Timberlea Trail.

With files from the Canadian Press