News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Residents living or working along the Saint John River should remain vigilant over the coming days due to the forecast for snow and rain and to the potential for ice movement.

Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting between 15 to 25 centimetres of snow starting today through later in the day Friday, and rain next week from Monday through Tuesday.

River Watch officials are watching closely for ice movement in the upper Saint John River basin which would increase the risk of ice jams. Ice jams have the potential to cause a rapid increase of water levels in affected areas. At the moment there are two minor ice jams, one near Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska, on the Saint John River, and one at the mouth of Tobique River. Water levels remain below flood levels in all areas, but the situation could change quickly.

Residents can report ice jams and localized flooding at any time by calling 1-800-561-4034. They can also monitor the latest lower Saint John River five-day forecast and the latest upper Saint John River five-day forecast.

New Brunswickers are reminded to:

• keep watercraft off rivers and 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;

• be prepared for possible flooding and have a plan to evacuate and 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;

• report ice jams 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 the Emergency Measures Organization on Twitter and Facebook.

The River Watch program is in effect to provide New Brunswickers with information on the status of rivers, potential ice jams, and other flood issues across the province over the coming weeks.

The program is a joint effort between the Department of Environment and Local Government and the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization of the Department of Public Safety. Other partners include NB Power, watershed groups, and federal, provincial and state agencies involved in monitoring and forecasting the water flow in the province's rivers and streams.

Updates on information related to the potential for flooding or ice jams, including 24/7 emergency updates, is available online.