In a recent incident near Montreal’s Jacques Cartier Bridge, a major underground water main break caused flooding in the surrounding area. The geyser that erupted at the corner of René-Lévesque Boulevard and de Lorimier Avenue led to the evacuation of nearby buildings. The rushing water reached heights of 10 meters at its peak, creating a challenging situation for residents and authorities.

Mayor Valérie Plante emphasized the importance of letting repair crews do their work and not crossing the danger tape in the affected area. The broken section of the pipe, installed in 1985, will require excavation to assess the severity of the issue. However, officials reassured the public that drinking water safety is not compromised, thanks to redundancies in the city’s network of water mains.

Despite water receding in the district by mid-morning, authorities cautioned against returning to the flooded area until given the green light. Montreal fire department’s division chief, Martin Guilbault, warned that structural damage to streets could pose risks even after the water subsides. Emergency services ensured the evacuation of affected buildings and continued to evaluate the situation before residents can safely return home.

As a precautionary measure, Quebec’s hydro utility cut power to the impacted area, affecting around 14,000 clients. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and prompt response in mitigating the effects of such infrastructure failures. Stay updated on official instructions and avoid affected areas for safety reasons.

Stay informed, stay safe, and follow guidelines from authorities in similar situations to ensure your well-being and that of your community.

©2024 The Canadian Press

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