The Montreal Metropolitan Community (CMM) has expressed disappointment over the delay in publishing new flood zone maps, which were scheduled to be released on August 1st. The CMM has been diligently working to update these maps in line with Quebec’s new regulatory framework for several years.
Initially planned to cover areas surrounding various rivers and lakes, including Rivière des Mille Îles and Lac Saint-Louis, the publication of the maps has been postponed by the Ministry of the Environment. Denis Martin, the mayor of Deux-Montagnes and a member of the CMM executive committee, voiced frustration, stating that the CMM had prepared the maps as per the government’s mandate since 2019.
Despite the new flood zone maps being ready for publication since 2024, the Ministry’s delay has caused concerns among officials. The outdated maps currently available on the government portal do not accurately reflect the flood risks, leading to challenges for municipalities and residents seeking this critical information.
With a new map originally planned for spring 2026, the timing of the publication delay is worrisome, especially with upcoming elections. Denis Martin emphasized the importance of resolving this issue promptly to avoid further setbacks and ensure continuity in addressing flood risks under any new government.
The new generation of flood zone maps aims to provide a more detailed classification of risk categories, including low, moderate, high, very high, and protected with residual risk, each represented by a corresponding color. This modernization is essential to adapt to the evolving impact of climate change on flood patterns in the region.
Keyphrase: Montreal flood zone maps
