FREDERICTON (GNB) – As the River Watch season officially begins in New Brunswick, residents are being reminded to be prepared and be on alert for rising water levels in the river systems.

The River Watch Program for 2015 was officially launched this morning in Fredericton with representatives of the Department of Environment and Local Government, Environment Canada, the Department of Public Safety's Emergency Measures Organization and NB Power.

“While temperatures have remained cooler so far this month, New Brunswickers are well aware that it is only a matter of time before the ice begins to break up and we see water levels on the rise,” said Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Stephen Horsman. “I ask all people living along waterways or in flood prone areas to be proactive and start the process of protecting their homes and belongings now.”

In the past weeks, officials have stepped up preparedness measures in anticipation of a potentially busy spring, given high snowpack in parts of the province.

“Our department’s Hydrology Centre will once again be forecasting and identifying the potential for flood problems,” said Environment and Local Government Minister Brian Kenny. “The latest monitoring results indicate that quantities of water in the snowpack are at normal levels in the upper Saint John River basin and above normal in the lower basin. It is important for residents to remain alert and to be informed of conditions during the spring season. I urge all residents to visit our River Watch page for the latest information and advice.”

Each morning, officials will collect data from various partners and use it for river modeling and forecasting water levels. The condition of the river ice and ice breakup will also be monitored. The public will then be informed of potential risks that are identified.

During the River Watch season, New Brunswickers are reminded to:

  • be prepared for possible flooding and have a plan to evacuate and to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours;
  • move belongings to higher ground if their property is near a waterway or is in an area that is prone to flooding;
  • avoid the banks of waterways as they become dangerous this time of year. The water is cold and currents are swift and could be carrying debris;
  • report an ice jam or rising water. If you need advice, contact the Emergency Measures Organization at 1-800-561-4034; and
  • read helpful tips, the latest forecasts and public advisories by visiting the River Watch website or by following it on Twitter and Facebook.

Weather warnings and road conditions are also available online.

 

16-03-15