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Communities along Lac St-Louis brace for high water levels, possible flooding

Click to play video: 'Montreal communities brace for flooding'
Montreal communities brace for flooding
WATCH: Communities along Lac St-Louis are bracing for high water levels as the weather takes a turn. As Billy Shields reports, preparations are already underway in Dorval to minimize the risk of flooding – Feb 19, 2018

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for southern Quebec, including the entire Montreal area.

Significant rainfall of between 20 to 30 mm is expected with rain starting Monday evening and continuing on to Wednesday.

A warm front is also expected to make its way across the province, with a high of 10 C expected on Wednesday.

The weather agency is warning of a risk of localized flooding due to the runoff from the melting of snow and the rainfall.

READ MORE: Quebec flood victims told they need to find a new place to live

The West Island community of Dorval isn’t taking any chances.

Precautionary measures are being implemented to minimize the risk of flooding.

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On its website, the city says officials are monitoring storm sewers to ensure they are draining properly and are inspecting various sectors of the town.

The heavy rainfall is a real concern for the communities surrounding Lac St-Louis.

Data from the International Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River Board show water levels on the lake are above average for this time of year — even exceeding threshold limits in January.

Water levels are above average on Lac St-Louis. Monday, Feb. 19, 2018. Graph courtesy of the International Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River Board
Water levels are above average on Lac St-Louis. Monday, Feb. 19, 2018. Graph courtesy of the International Lake Ontario – St. Lawrence River Board. International Lake Ontario - St. Lawrence River Board

Water levels this year are even higher than those that preceded the devastating spring floods of 2017.

READ MORE: Vast majority of Quebec flood victims still waiting for compensation

Authorities in Dorval will also be making sand bags available free of charge to those living in “critical” areas.

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Dorval has 800 gravel bags in stock for residents who need them in case of flooding. Monday, Feb. 19, 2018. Phil Carpenter/Global News

Residents are being asked to call the city at 514-633-4046 to request their sandbags.

In the event that flooding does occur, residents are being directed to call emergency services at 911.

For more information on what to do in case of flooding, consult the Urgences Québec website.

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