Debbie Hits Chelsea Hard        

Reuel S. Amdur

Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink.  In her last gasp, Hurricane Debby soaked the Maritimes and eastern Ontario and Quebec.  Chelsea was hit hard, with major road damage and damage as well to the water filtration plant.  As a result, a boil-water advisory was in effect till August 21.  As well, Chelsea residents and businesses are urged to curtail water use till the end of August, to allow crews to put the filtration plant back in full working order.   That is in addition to the state of emergency declared on August 10, extended to August 22. 

Debby damaged a number of homes.  Because of the problem with water, some businesses such as restaurants are making water from ice delivered to them.

Mayor Pierre Guénard sees the rehabilitation process taking weeks.  Chelsea is receiving financial support from the province.

Photo caption: Mayor Pierre Guénard