National Strategy on Flood and Drought Forecasting Act
Requires the government to develop a national strategy for flood and drought forecasting, including improved data collection, early warning systems, and coordination between federal, provincial, and municipal governments.
Sponsor · Tatiana Auguste
If you live in a flood- or drought-prone area, you could get earlier warnings and better-prepared local governments. Aims to prevent disasters like the BC floods and prairie droughts by investing in forecasting infrastructure.
The debate · 6 points
Supporters say
- BC atmospheric rivers and prairie droughts have caused billions in damages — earlier warnings and coordinated response could prevent much of that harm.
- federal, provincial, and municipal governments currently operate separate, incompatible forecasting systems; a national strategy forces coordination.
- committee heard testimony from housing and infrastructure experts confirming that better flood modelling would help identify which properties and infrastructure are most at risk.
Critics say
- the Bloc Québécois voted against the bill at second reading, arguing land use and flood management are provincial responsibilities.
- Environment and Climate Change Canada already operates national weather and flood forecasting services — critics question whether a separate strategy adds value.
- a PMB can direct the government to create a strategy but cannot allocate the funding or staff needed to implement it effectively.
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