It’s raining again in Estrie and Environment Canada is forecasting up to 50 millimeters of rain through Saturday, but it could be less.
An Environment Canada meteorologist believes the amount of water Estrie will receive is being overestimated.
“I would say that’s probably an overstatement of the total,” says Peter Kimbell.
However, the rain still worries Magog.
“We will carry out constant on-site checks. All employees are mobilized this weekend and ready to intervene if necessary,” said Sylvain Artaud, Director of the Fire Department and Emergency Response Coordinator of the City of Magog.
Lake Memphremagog’s level has dropped 8 cm, its biggest drop in the last 24 hours.
This gives emergency teams a chance but remains on high alert.
“I’m still not overly concerned because the lake has subsided and there is room for new water, but it’s unclear what will fall in Vermont.” We also have a forecast of 30 to 50 millimeters of rain there, so we’re worried we don’t know how the lake will react,” adds Sylvain Artaud.
The water discharge at the dam is still 195 m3 per second.
The river Magog therefore flows extremely fast.
Because of this, Sherbrooke’s beaches have been closed.
“It’s important for people to understand that even a good swimmer will have trouble staying in place and that you have to expect debris in the river,” said City of Sherbrooke Sports and Recreation Coordinator François Salvail.
The municipal beach in the Deauville sector will also remain closed until Tuesday due to water quality.
It received a C rating, which means the water is polluted.
These closures come as thousands of holidaymakers look to cool off there.