More than 80 people were forced to flee their homes in central Quebec after a downpour drenched the region early Wednesday.

Authorities say about 65 millimetres fell in about six hours in Quebec's Upper-Mauricie region, causing flooding in the towns of La Bostonnais and La Tuque.

About 35 homes in La Bostonnais reported some flooding.

In La Tuque, 12 homes were flooded.

Evacuated residents found shelter with friends, family and neighbours.

Water levels in nearby rivers are still high and may rise throughout the day if there is more rain, said Jacques Raymond, regional director of civil security.