Spring icebreaking on St. Lawrence River between Saint-Pierre-les-Becquets and Sorel

February 22, 2019

Québec, Quebec - The Canadian Coast Guard advises people living nearby or using the shores of the St. Lawrence River, that spring icebreaking operations will begin between Saint-Pierre-les-Becquets and Sorel, on Monday February 25, 2019. The date is subject to change without notice and icebreaking could begin after that date, according to operational needs or the prevailing weather conditions.

These annual activities are intended to free the river from the fast ice that has formed in recent weeks. They also aim to dislodge ice at the mouths of the tributaries in order to prevent ice jams and flooding that can result from the spring break-up. The icebreaker CCGS Pierre Radisson, and hovercrafts CCGS Mamilossa and Sipu Muin will carry out the operation.

The Coast Guard strongly recommends that pedestrians, fishermen and snowmobilers get off the ice when they see an icebreaker or hovercraft in the area. The ice may move, and this may create a real danger for anyone in the area. Owners of facilities or equipment on the ice should move them safely ashore before operations begin.

The CCGS Pierre Radisson has a red hull with a transverse white band and a white funnel bearing a maple leaf. The CCGS Mamilossa and the Sipu Muin are air-cushion vehicles whose engines produce a noise similar to an aircraft.

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