Floodwaters cover the Randolph Bridge in Saint John on April 27, 2019. (Image: Brad Perry)
It is that time of year to keep an eye on the Saint John River and its tributaries.
The River Watch program launched for another season Wednesday in New Brunswick.
Each morning, River Watch officials will receive a weather briefing and collect data from several sources to develop river models and forecasts.
They will then inform the public of any potential threats which may exist.
After two years of record-breaking flooding during the spring freshet, last year was relatively quiet along the Saint John River basin.
But Public Safety Minister Ted Flemming says it would be a mistake to count on another year of minor impact.
“Not only is it important to secure your property and have a 72-hour preparedness kit, but New Brunswickers need to check with insurance providers about flood insurance,” said Flemming in a statement. “If affordable flood insurance is available to you, you are ineligible for disaster financial assistance related to flooding.”
New Brunswickers are reminded to avoid the banks of waterways as the water is cold and swift currents could be carrying debris.
The River Watch program is a collaboration between the Department of Environment and Local Government and the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization.
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