Water levels in the St. John River Basin will continue to rise significantly over the next few days reaching or passing flood stage in several areas.

Residents living along the Saint John River basin, especially in the following communities should remain on high alert.  That includes the following areas:

  • Saint-François-de-Madawaska,
  • Clair / Fort Kent,
  • Baker-Brook,
  • Saint-Hilaire,
  • Edmundston,
  • Iroquois,
  • Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska,
  • Saint-Léonard,
  • Fredericton,
  • Maugerville,
  • Jemseg,
  • Grand Lake,
  • Sheffield / Lakeville Corner,
  • Oak Point and
  • Quispamsis / Saint John

New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization is also closely monitoring other watercourses such as the Restigouche River, Middle River, and Tetagouche River where water levels and ice jams might impact residences and roads in the coming days.

People in these areas who have experienced flooding in the past should expect to experience similar or worse conditions and are advised to know the risks, take preventative measures, and to consider voluntary evacuation if necessary.

Report issues with water  

Residents can report any issues related to increased water levels or flooding at any time by calling 1-800-561-4034. In case of emergency, call 911.

For recorded River Watch water levels, people may call 1-888-561-4048.

Sandbags available

Sand and sandbags are available at locations across the province for residents who require them. An updated list of locations that have sand and sandbags is available online.

The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre, Area Command Centre, multiple Incident Command Posts, and Regional Operations Centres are fully activated now to coordinate emergency response operations as they are required.

NBEMO is working closely with NB Power and the Department of Public Safety’s chief electrical inspector. If rising water is in contact with or is expected to come into contact with electrical facilities including receptacles, please call 1-800-663-6272 for an emergency disconnect.

New Brunswickers are reminded to consider moving 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, avoid boating, kayaking or other water activities this time of year as currents are strong and may carry debris.

More tips are available along with the latest forecasts and public advisories by visiting the River Watch website, or by following the Emergency Measures Organization on Twitter and Facebook.

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