Changes in average temperatures

Data compiled by Ouranos predict that by 2080, the average annual temperature could be 7°C higher than during the reference period (1980-2010). This factor can be linked to other climatic indicators that could present a risk: An increase in the number of freeze-thaw days, an increase in the number of extreme heat days in summer (> 30°C) and a reduction in the number of snow days in winter.

The main impacts on the community related to changes in temperature are as follows:

• Reduced lifespan of municipal infrastructure;
• Higher risk of ice storms and loss of electricity;
• Risk of ice jams and localized flooding;
• Forest fire;
• Increased heat stress and health impacts;
• High electricity demand, due to air-conditioning requirements;
• Risk of bacterial growth affecting recreational use of lakes and surface drinking water sources;
• Changes to biodiversity and local resources;
• Reduced supply of rivers and water sources by melting snow;
• Impact on drinking water supply; and
• Reduced albedo effect of snow, accelerating global warming (heat islands).

The municipality takes these impacts into account and adopts adaptation measures accordingly. One way of dealing with them is to protect the region's natural infrastructures.