The Eastern Townships community of Shefford is cleaning up after the worst winter damage since 1998.
As many as 1,500 homes lost power for as long as 10 hours following a slow, steady stream of freezing rain that began Monday in Shefford, 100 kilometres east of Montreal.
Though power has been restored, firefighters continue to work overtime clearing away branches that could threaten Hydro Quebec power lines.
"There are 175 trees to cut down just on this small street here," said firefighter Martin Morisette.
What's unusual abount the storm is the relatively low temperature in the area lately. Most freezing rain occurs when the mercury hovers around the freezing mark, but it's been -8 celsius in the region for three days.
"Exceptionally high humidity is to blame," explained Sheffield Mayor Jean-Marc Desrochers.
Vivid memories
Ice snapped branches and streets turned slippery, evoking vivid memories of the 1998 ice storm, when some residences in the area lost power for up to month.
"It was scary, because you just think of the worst ice storm that there was, and so you just think, 'Not again!'" said one Shefford resident.
Many residents are more prepared after their experience battling the storm 12 years ago, including Michel Proulx, who tested out his new generator.
"It worked very well because we were able to keep the house quite warm and use the stove and the fridge and everything," said Proulx.
