Along the streets of St. Catharines, Ontario, remnants of recent flooding are still visible with piles of belongings stacked at the curb. Couches, mattresses, and drywall lay outside homes, serving as a stark reminder of the destruction caused by multiple severe storms in less than two weeks.
Mayor Mat Siscoe reported that the city faced three significant storm events, the most intense in quick succession within an 11 to 12-day period. While the stormwater system managed the first storm adequately, subsequent storms hit already saturated ground, overwhelming the system’s capacity. This resulted in widespread overland flooding and sewer backups into residences, with sewage entering some homes.
Dave White, owner of White Orchard Farms near St. David’s, encountered flooding on his garlic fields during the recent storms. Fortunately, he had harvested his garlic a week prior, avoiding crop losses. White had taken proactive measures based on past experiences to ensure his fields could handle excess water, including cleaning ditches and creating water channels.
White, who also operates a restoration company, highlighted the overwhelming demand for flood-related services in recent weeks, with some properties flooding again shortly after cleanup. He expressed concerns about the increasing frequency of floods and emphasized the need for substantial investment in upgrading drainage and sewage infrastructure to accommodate growing urban development.
The city of St. Catharines faced challenges during the recent storms due to the age and capacity of its sewer systems. While efforts to improve sewer systems have been made in recent years, significant financial resources and workforce are required for a comprehensive overhaul. The mayor stressed the importance of external funding to support infrastructure upgrades, as property taxes alone cannot cover the cost.
Siscoe outlined plans for an independent review of flood response and infrastructure, aiming to enhance flood resilience and prioritize improvements. Proposed strategies include redesigning parks to absorb excess rainwater temporarily and implementing stormwater retention requirements for new developments. The city acknowledges the long-term nature of these projects, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts in mitigating future flood risks.