Beauceville, Quebec, is currently grappling with significant flooding, forcing local officials to take drastic action as multiple communities face rising water levels due to record warm weather and heavy rainfall. On March 17, 2025, several streets along the Chaudière River were overrun with water after fluctuations in temperature triggered melting ice and the formation of dangerous ice jams late on March 16.
Local authorities declared an emergency as the ice jam prompted the river to surge, leading to flooded streets and overflowing banks. The municipal government has officially warned residents, advising them to evacuate affected homes and businesses as the situation deteriorated. "An emergency shelter has been opened at the local arena," stated local news reports.
The floods come during worrying climatic conditions, as the Quebec government reported medium flooding at three water monitoring stations by 11 A.M. on March 17. These floods have led to school closures and road barricades across the region.
Drummondville officials are also on high alert, recommending evacuations for about 300 residences due to the St-François River, which was reported to be surging at five times its average speed. Photos shared by the municipality depict vehicles partially submerged and streets resembling rivers.
With Environment Canada noting several parts of the province experiencing record-high temperatures—20.1°C recorded in Beauceville and 16.4°C in Montreal—this situation is raising concerns about climate patterns and future flood risks. The rapid temperature change has not only contributed to the flooding but also increased the urgency around public safety measures.
Meanwhile, other nearby communities are feeling the effects too. Sherbrooke has closed certain streets after the Saint-François River overflowed its banks the previous night. Officials there are keeping the public informed, encouraging residents to stay updated via their website. "The river was under 'high surveillance' and encourages people to visit its website to follow the situation as it evolves," authorities emphasized.
Alongside Sherbrooke, various other rivers including the Bulstrode, Eaton, and Nicolet have registered minor floods, indicating the widespread impact of these weather conditions across the province. Authorities are actively monitoring nine additional waterways as the peak of flooding is anticipated to be observed today.
This rapidly developing situation is highlighting not only the immediate danger posed by floods but also raises questions about how climate change is affecting weather patterns across Quebec. Municipal safety teams continue to work hard, coordinating evacuation efforts and ensuring public safety.
Although some recovery measures are underway, the localized flooding exemplifies how vulnerable certain communities are to severe weather, especially as climate-related events continue to become increasingly common. Residents are urged to remain cautious and listen to updates from local officials as they navigate this challenging situation.
