Aroha DeForest, a long-time resident of Nepean, has been living in her home since the 1990s. She purchased sandbags after her property was flooded in 2023 and has since made them a permanent fixture in her laneway following a record-breaking rainstorm on Canada Day.
According to DeForest, the recent heavy rainfall on Monday, totaling 23.5 millimetres, caused concerns as it flooded parts of the city for the second time in just over a month. This has left residents, including DeForest, feeling on edge and stressed about the possibility of future weather events.
DeForest mentioned that residents in her neighborhood, including herself, have been cautious, even avoiding leaving their homes or going on vacations simultaneously to ensure someone is always available to monitor the situation.
The uncertainty surrounding forecasted rain has instilled fear in residents like DeForest, who worry about potential flooding in their own homes or those of their neighbors. She emphasized the need for constant vigilance in such situations.
City officials have identified the College, Bay, and Knoxdale-Merivale wards as the most severely affected areas by the flooding on Canada Day. Knoxdale-Merivale Coun. Sean Devine, after engaging with residents in his ward, echoed their demands for increased support in dealing with the aftermath of the flooding.
The city administration is currently reviewing its response to the Canada Day storm and exploring ways to enhance preparedness for future extreme weather occurrences. Devine stressed the importance of addressing critical questions regarding investment and sacrifices needed to mitigate such risks promptly.
Another Nepean resident, Wesley Bova, expressed concerns following the recent storm, although it was not as destructive as the previous Canada Day deluge that impacted his family’s home. Bova highlighted the lingering apprehension felt by many residents, fearing a potential repeat of the devastating flooding.
After spending a month cleaning up from the earlier flood, Bova emphasized the lingering anxiety his family experiences whenever dark clouds loom overhead, prompting them to prepare for the worst-case scenario.