The River Watch program is officially underway.
It provides 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 collaboration between the Department of Environment and Local Government and the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization.
They look at things including snowpack, precipitation, air temperature and ice in the river. They also are monitoring and forecasting water levels and potential issues that could come with the spring melt.
During the River Watch season, New Brunswickers should:
• 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;
• avoid the banks of waterways, as they become dangerous this time of year. The water is cold the and currents are swift and could carry debris;
• be aware that, as ice continues to deteriorate, it may become unsafe to cross waterways on foot, in cars, or on snowmobiles or ATVs;
• call the River Watch Toll Free Number 1-888-561-4048 to receive the latest recorded water levels, forecasts and public advisories;
• call 511 for road closures and conditions or check online;
• 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; and
• report significant ice jams or rising water. If you need advice, contact the Emergency Measures Organization at 1-800-561-4034.
