Ottawa Public Health is providing wellness resources for residents affected by last week’s Canada Day storm, including door-to-door check-ins in flood-damaged neighbourhoods.
The July 1 heavy rainfall caused flooding across several communities and damaged thousands of homes.
Storm Floods Ottawa Homes
The storm brought intense rainfall that led to major flooding in different parts of the city.
One affected homeowner, Shannon Kalil, said nearly three feet of dirty water filled her basement.
She said she stood in disbelief after seeing the amount of water inside her home.
Mold Forces Resident From Home
After the flooding, orange and white fluffy mold began growing in Kalil’s basement.
The damage forced her to leave her home.
She said she is now dealing with stress while trying to manage repairs and insurance claims, without knowing when she will be able to return.
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Ottawa Public Health Focuses on Emotional Recovery
Dr. Trevor Arnason, Ottawa Public Health’s medical officer of health, said mental health is just as important as physical health during recovery from a flood.
He said cleaning up after a flood can be extremely difficult because people often have to throw away valuable and personally meaningful belongings.
Door-to-Door Wellness Visits Underway
OPH is working with city partners to organize wellness visits for residents affected by the flooding.
As of Thursday afternoon, the city had completed more than 1,000 door-to-door wellness checks in the neighbourhoods hit hardest by the storm.
Flooding Can Take a Strong Emotional Toll
Arnason said many people focus on physical risks, such as illness from floodwater exposure.
However, he said it is also important to recognize the emotional impact these events can have on residents.
He described the mental strain from flood damage and displacement as significant.
Resources Available Online
The Ottawa Public Health website offers information to help residents cope with stressful events.
It also includes guidance specifically related to residential flooding and recovery after flood damage.
Ottawa Public Health is supporting residents affected by the Canada Day storm through wellness resources and door-to-door check-ins. With thousands of homes damaged and some residents displaced by flooding and mold, officials say recovery must include both physical safety and emotional well-being.