More rain could mean more flooding along St. John River
Water along the St. John River is above flood stage, with more rain on the way
With more rain on the way Monday, the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization is keeping a close eye on high water levels across the province.
Over the weekend, about 100 millimetres of rain fell in southwestern New Brunswick, raising the St. John River above flood stage, at 6.8 metres, in some areas.
"The impacts weren't as bad as we thought they could get … we got a bit lucky," said Paul Bradley, an EMO spokesperson.
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He said the areas most affected by flooding are in Fredericton, Maugerville and Jemseg.
Blissville family keeps boats in their driveway like most people keep cars. Surrounded on all sides by floodwaters <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NB?src=hash">#NB</a> <a href="https://t.co/pedp71qRlx">pic.twitter.com/pedp71qRlx</a>
—@CBCShane"We can't let our guard down until the system has had a chance to drop," he said. "We're keeping an eye on everything."
Consider yourself lucky
Wayne Tallon, the EMO director for the City of Fredericton, said that although flooding happens every year, residents are lucky the heavy rain didn't happen three weeks earlier, when snow was melting.
"If you add snowmelt and rain — that could've caused a lot of issues," he said. "It could've been worse."
High water has closed about a dozen roads, including Route 105 from the Burton Bridge to Jemseg. Anyone travelling through flooded areas are asked to use extreme caution, drive slowly and restrict travel to essential driving.
EMO officials said waterways are extremely dangerous because the water is high, fast and cold and could be carrying debris. As well, the banks are unstable, and anyone who gets too close could be swept away.
"The waters, they look calm but the currents are very strong and the water's cold," Tallon said.
Residents were also advised to avoid going into flooded basements, where the water could come in contact with electrical systems. Should flood water come close to electrical systems, people are advised to contact NB Power.
"It's up to us to keep people well-informed and know what's coming and hopefully there won't be too much rain," Tallon said. "It's a matter of education and information right now."
Up to 15 millimetres of rain was forecast for Monday, and Environment Canada says showers are also possible Tuesday and Thursday.