Ottawa and Gatineau clean up after powerful storms hit the area on Canada Day

Ottawa —
Emergency teams in Ottawa and Gatineau began removing the effects of severe thunderstorms that struck the area during the afternoon and evening on Canada Day, after heavy rains and strong winds caused local flooding, scattered damage, and widespread disruption of outdoor events.

The storms came after a hot and humid day, quickly turning the weather into severe conditions accompanied by heavy rainfall in a short time, leading to water accumulation in several streets and the closure of parts of roads, including sections of the Queensway highway, as well as internal streets affected by rising water levels.

Residents in various areas also reported falling branches and trees, malfunctioning traffic signals, and power outages in several neighborhoods, while municipal teams and electricity companies moved to handle reports and reopen affected roads.

The weather conditions forced organizers to suspend several Canada Day events at key locations, including LeBreton Flats, Parliament Hill, Old Hull, and the area near the Supreme Court, before some activities resumed later after conditions improved and the immediate danger subsided.

The area witnessed clear disruption in traffic and movement, especially with the storm coinciding with large public gatherings for celebrations, prompting authorities to urge residents to avoid water-covered roads and not attempt to cross them by vehicle or on foot.

Emergency teams confirmed that the post-storm phase focuses on debris removal, inspecting damaged trees and wires, and addressing water accumulation, while residents were asked to report any hazardous damage and stay away from power lines or unstable trees.

Canada Day in the capital turned into an exceptional weather day, combining heat, humidity, and sudden storms, before the city moved to the cleanup phase, damage assessment, and gradually restoring life to streets and public sites.