Provincial officials are asking residents who live near major waterways to stay vigilant as water levels in some areas are expected to reach flood stage this week.
The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization (NBEMO) and the Department of Justice and Public Safety said the spring snow thaw is causing water levels to rise in rivers throughout the province.
Officials say Saint-Hilaire, a village in northern New Brunswick near the Quebec border, is forecast to reach flood stage by Tuesday.
“Residents living or working in areas prone to localized flooding are reminded to be aware and take the proper precautions to safeguard their homes and possessions,” the province said in a news release.
“River Watch officials continue to watch ice movements in the upper Saint John River basin, which still have the potential to cause ice jams which can cause sudden increases of water levels in affected areas.”
New Brunswickers who live in flood-prone areas are being reminded of tips to stay safe:
- Keep watercraft off rivers and avoid the banks of waterways as the cold water could be carrying debris and have strong currents
- Have a plan to evacuate and be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours
- Move belongings to higher ground
- Report ice jams or rising water to NBEMO at 1-800-561-4034
Government says information related to flooding or ice jams is available here.