Ottawa flooded as Canada Day storm dumps 111mm of rain in hours
Basement flooding reported across Woodpark and Queensway Terrace North; Theresa Kavanagh's own home affected as tens of thousands lost power.
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More than 110 millimetres of rain fell across Ottawa on July 1, turning west-end streets into rivers and forcing residents to bail out basements on Canada Day.
The severe thunderstorm overwhelmed drainage systems in Woodpark and Queensway Terrace North. Water filled roadside ditches before spilling onto properties, with one resident reporting 24–36 inches of water rising up his garage door. At the Richardson-Midway intersection, pooling became so severe it effectively formed a lake during the storm.
Residents have long flagged the problem to the City. Marc Giardino, who lives on Richardson Road, said he has repeatedly raised concerns with Bay Ward Councillor Theresa Kavanagh since moving to the neighbourhood in 2017. In Queensway Terrace North, around 200 homes were landlocked by two feet of water. Kavanagh, whose own basement near Britannia flooded, reached out to find a solution for residents cut off by the water.
Across the city, roads including parts of Woodroffe Avenue and Highway 417 by Pinecrest closed. Tens of thousands lost power. The severe storm also cancelled Canada Day celebrations at LeBreton Flats, including the evening show and fireworks. Residents are calling for the city to deepen roadside ditches, install larger culverts, and improve drainage near trouble spots.
