The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization (NBEMO), has continued to issue warnings and information as flooding persists throughout the province, amid growing sanitation concerns due to overwhelmed wastewater infrastructure.

NBEMO stated in their most recent River Watch 2018 dispatch that “Water will remain at historically high levels in the southern regions of the province for the coming days. People should continue to be vigilant and avoid any activities on the water, as currents are still strong and there is significant debris in the water.”

Over the weekend, NBEMO continued to monitor water levels on the Madawaska River, which increased over the weekend due to outflow from the Temiscouata Dam in Quebec and high water levels of the St. John River. However, these factors are not anticipated to pose further risk to residents and are not expected to impact water levels in the St. John River.

 

As flood waters could become heavily contaminated with sewage, residents have been advised to monitor their homes for sewage backups and to take necessary precautions when managing such backups. “Lots of sewage systems have been compromised by flooding, and when they’re overwhelmed the sewage has no place to go but into the water courses or to backup into houses,” said Greg MacCallum, director of NBEMO to CTV News.

The floods are disrupting residents, roads, and water wells throughout the province. According to the province, to date, 488 households consisting of 1,158 people have registered with the Red Cross. As well, 871 NB Power customers have had their electrical services disconnected due to flooding.

More details for residents, including how to apply for Disaster Financial Assistance and to get their well water tested, are available on the Government of New Brunswick’s website.

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