FREDERICTON (GNB) – Residents living or working along the Saint John River should remain vigilant as water levels are expected to rise in the coming days, particularly in the northwest.

The latest water-level forecast shows Saint-Hilaire might reach the warning stage early next week.

River Watch officials are also watching closely for ice movement in the upper Saint John River basin, which would increase the risk of ice jams in the coming days. Ice jams have the potential to cause a rapid increase of water levels in affected areas.

Residents can monitor the latest lower Saint John River five-day forecast and the upper Saint John River five-day forecast.

New Brunswickers are reminded to:

  • keep watercraft off rivers and avoid the banks of waterways as they become dangerous this time of year. The water is cold, and currents are swift and could be carrying debris;
  • 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;
  • report ice jams or rising water. If you need advice, contact the Emergency Measures Organization at 1-800-561-4034; and
  • 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.

The River Watch program is in effect to provide 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 joint effort led between the Department of Environment and Local Government, the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization of the Department of Justice and Public Safety and NB Power, supported by Environment and Climate Change Canada, watershed groups, and other federal, provincial and state agencies involved in monitoring and forecasting the water flow in the province's rivers and streams.

Updates on information related to the potential for flooding or ice jams, including 24/7 emergency updates, is available online and will be issued to the news media, local governments, partners and first responders.

13-04-23