A LAV sits across a flooded portion of Westfield road.
Flood levels in the Saint John River are expected to start going down this week, after a week of major flooding across the province.
Water levels In Fredericton will finally go below flood stage by next Thursday.
Jemseg, Maugerville, Grand Lake and Sheffield are all still above flood stage, but will see levels drop throughout the week.
Levels peaked in the Saint John area on Friday at 5.53 metres, and have started to fall, but will remain above flood stage until Thursday.
Saint John EMO is asking people to still keep safety a top priority.
A platoon of 30 soldiers will assist Saint John police and fire with emergency response efforts, and conducting wellness checks.
About 275 wellness checks had been completed as of Friday night and they’ll continue on a 48-hour cycle until floodwaters recede.
A voluntary evacuation notice remains in effect for about 600 residents due to serious flooding or isolation.
Anyone who does evacuate should register with the Canadian Red Cross by calling 1-800-863-6582 or by visiting their reception centre at the Carleton Community Centre from 8 a-m to 8 p-m.
As well, Saint John Energy is disconnecting and reconnecting customers at risk of flooding at no charge—you can call 658-5252.
Dozens of roads in the Saint John area remain closed along with several city parks.
Floodwaters have impacted some parks. Observe posted signage & do not enter the following at this time:
•Tucker Park
•Private Greenslade Park
•Dominion Park
•Shamrock Park, lower fields
•Robertson Square
•Fallsview Park
•Riverview Park
•St. Peter's Ballfield#sjemo pic.twitter.com/4jEnPSArCw— City of Saint John (@cityofsaintjohn) April 26, 2019
Ragged Point Road and Westfield road have been built up to maintain access for some isolated residents.
EMO and police are asking people to drive slowly on these roads, and to watch out for water and wildlife on other roads.
Drivers are not permitted to move or drive around barricades. Ignoring or moving these barricades is an offence, and offenders will be charged.
The SJ-EMO is planning for the cleanup efforts and operations that will be required once flood waters begin to recede, by utilizing its volunteer program.
For those who live in an isolated flood-impacted area and are on a regular garbage collection schedule, a special collection will be organized after floodwaters recede.
Residents should be very cautious around floodwaters, and avoid entering the water on foot or by boat, as it is likely contaminated.
