A report into a major flood in Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac, Que., a year ago is highlighting several problems including a lack of awareness among the population about the associated risks.
The report, prepared by experts at the Universite de Montreal, notes that many residents weren’t aware they were living in a flood zone or the possible dangers of living near a dike.
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Among other findings, researchers found many children’s bedrooms in the basements of homes in the city northwest of Montreal.
The flooding in Saite-Marthe-sur-le-Lac occurred the evening of April 27, 2019, when a dike gave way during a period of exceptional spring flooding.
A section of the city was quickly submerged and a third of the town’s population had to evacuate their homes, but there were no deaths.
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The report’s recommendations for municipalities include having a co-ordination centre in place, as well as a quick way of getting information to residents and an accounting of those citizens most vulnerable in a disaster.