Expected rain may cause damage to the estuary

The Estrie is back in the rain and Environment Canada is predicting 50 millimeters of rain by Saturday, but it could be less.

Environment Canada’s meteorologist believes the amount of water the Estrie receives is overstated.

“I would say that’s a gross overestimate,” says Peter Kimpel.

However, the rain is still worrying.

“We will continue to check on the ground. All staff are mobilized this weekend and are ready to intervene if we need to do so,” said Sylvain Artaud, director of the fire department and emergency operations coordinator for the city of Magog.

Lake Memphremagog has risen 8 cm in the last 24 hours.

This gives emergency teams a chance, but they are more cautious.

“I’m not worried yet, because the lake is down and there’s room to get new water, but it’s not clear what will fall in Vermont. We have a forecast of 30 to 50 millimeters of rain, so we’re worried, we don’t know how the lake will behave,” says Sylvain Artaud.

The water discharge of the dam is still 195 m/s.

Due to this, the flow of Magok River is very fast.

Sherbrooke beaches were closed due to this.

“It’s important for people to understand that even a good swimmer can struggle to stay, and you have to think there’s trash in the river,” said François Salville, sports and recreation coordinator for the City of Sherbrooke.

The municipal beach in Duvil sector will also remain closed till Tuesday due to water quality.

She received a C rating, which means the water is polluted.

The closures come as thousands of holidaymakers seek to cool off there.