Canada: Flood levels in New Brunswick drop May 8 /update 1

Event

Water levels dropped from 8 m (26 ft) to 7.75 (24.5 ft) in New Brunswick as of Tuesday, May 8. With little to no rain in the forecast, water levels are expected to continue to drop over the next two days. Although water levels are receding, officials say residents should not return to evacuated areas until given the all clear by authorities. Officials have warned that residents should avoid floodwaters that could be heavily contaminated with sewage and pose significant health risks.

Authorities estimate that between 2000 and 3000 people have been displaced as a result of the flooding. As of Tuesday, more than 100 provincial roads remain closed including the Trans-Canada Highway between Moncton and Fredericton and Route 10 between Fredericton and Chipman.

Context

Flooding, which began last week, has reportedly been among the most severe in the province’s history. Residents from Fredericton to Saint John were evacuated. The Canadian Coast Guard was called in to assist with recovery efforts which are ongoing.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to keep abreast of the situation, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, prepare for associated transportation disruptions, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders). Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded