Snow and ice removal operations could stretch out to next Wednesday due to rapidly changing conditions, including heavy rainfall and flooding of several streets, says Montreal.
Many of the city’s employees couldn’t show up to work today because schools were closed. In addition, each of them must take a 24-hour break by law to ensure they are well rested to operate heavy machinery.
This recent water accumulation could become deeply problematic in the next few days, as plunging temperatures are expected to make the accumulate water freeze over. In many places in the city, water is currently over a foot deep because drainage holes have been blocked by snow and ice.
The recent “weather bomb” we experienced defied all expectations, bringing in massive amounts of snow – over twice the expected amount. The snow turned to rain overnight, causing massive melting and flooding all over the city. Crews are currently working against the clock to clear drainage holes, but the task is overwhelming.
Long story short: keep your ice crampons handy: you’ll likely need them in the next few days.
Source: La Presse