The strong winds hitting our region today are knocking over branches and trees, which can then take down electrical wires. Given the number of wires being knocked down, Hydro-Québec is not able to remove them fast enough, so the Côte Saint-Luc Public Works and Public Security workers are temporarily closing streets for the safety of all. Our crews are also cleaning up fallen branches on the roadway and attempting to clear debris and construction material. The city has brought in extra Public Security patrollers to handle the challenge we face today.
You can help by:
- Staying off the roads, if possible.
- Staying indoors
- Ensuring that your outdoor furniture, waste bins, and other items are stored inside your garage (if possible) or secured outside.
With the risk of loss of electricity, we also recommend you ensure you have flashlights and that your mobile phone is fully charged.
Here is information from the Government of Canada on the dangers of heavy wind:
- Strong winds, and especially gusty winds, can cause property damage or turn any loose item into a dangerous projectile, and create unsafe travelling conditions that affect your ability to safely steer your car.
- When there is a wind warning for your area, you should expect inland winds to be blowing steadily at 60-65 km/h or more, or winds that are gusting up to 90 km/h or more. Secure or put away loose objects such as outdoor furniture or garbage cans, put your car in the garage, and bring livestock to shelter.
- With winds between 60 and 70 km/h, you will have difficulty with balance and walking against the wind. Twigs and small branches could also blow off trees and cause a hazard, so stay inside until it is safe.