The bar Rumours in downtown Halifax was forced to shut down after a sewage backup flooded various areas of the establishment during a sold-out event. Owners Jose Chiu and Gerald McCowan expressed their horror and frustration as raw sewage filled their office and the green room where entertainers prepared to perform. The health concerns prompted by the flooding led to the necessary closure of the bar for at least a week, significantly impacting their finances.

Chiu and McCowan lamented the loss of business, estimating that the closure would result in tens of thousands of dollars in losses. They highlighted the emotional toll this has taken, stating their inability to support the community through events and the pressure on their staff, who rely on their work hours. The situation has left the owners feeling helpless as they navigate the challenges posed by the unexpected incident, unsure of how the repairs will be financed.

The sewage backup, a public health concern, raises questions about ongoing issues related to infrastructure and maintenance in Halifax. As Chiu and McCowan deal with the aftermath of this event, the community waits to see how the repair responsibilities will be allocated and what measures will be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The article underscores the vulnerabilities small businesses face when confronted with such unforeseen crises, especially within the hospitality industry.