More than 4,500 Ottawa households reported basement flooding following the massive Canada Day storm, and the city says it has made “significant progress” in recovery efforts. Storm debris waste collection is set to begin this week.
Storm Response and Emergency Calls
During the 118-millimetre rainstorm on July 1, Ottawa Fire Services responded to nearly 700 emergency calls. Over 36,000 residents lost power, and the city fielded about 5,500 calls to the 311 service.
“Conditions continue to improve,” Ryan Perrault, the city’s general manager of emergency and protective services, said at a July 6 news conference. “All traffic signals are back online, and crews are repairing damaged roads, drainage systems, and other infrastructure. Electricity has been restored to nearly all affected customers.”
Garbage and Debris Collection
Residents impacted by flooding and power outages do not have to follow the standard three-item garbage limit. They are encouraged to place storm-related debris on the curb. Depending on city resources, garbage will be collected either on regular garbage days or through dedicated cleanup operations.
“If it is not collected on the scheduled day, please do not submit an additional service request, as crews will return to collect the remaining materials,” Perrault said.
There is no limit on organic waste. Residents with full green bins due to prolonged power outages can place additional food in garbage bags clearly labelled as green bin waste.
Fees have been waived at the Trail Road waste facility for any household that has submitted a service request for a basement flood or storm-related waste. Residents must provide their service request number and a piece of photo ID confirming their address.
Electronic waste and household hazardous waste still cannot be disposed of on the curb or at the landfill and require separate disposal, Perrault added.
Power Restoration and Temporary Disruptions
Hydro restoration for the 36,000 impacted households was officially complete on July 4, though Hydro Ottawa continues to identify storm-related damage to electrical equipment, said Bryce Conrad, president and CEO of Hydro Ottawa. As a result, some residents may still experience temporary power disruptions so repairs can be completed safely.
“We understand that this extraordinarily frustrates those disconnected, even when the water levels are receded, because flooding compromises electrical integrity,” Conrad said. “We must methodically drive, inspect and test each piece of infrastructure. This methodical approach is the only way to guarantee that your home and your family will be safe and reliable in the long-term.”
