FREDERICTON (GNB) – River Watch 2014 issued an ice movement and flood warning today at 2:45 p.m.:

Environment Canada is forecasting warm temperatures and rain in advance of a cold front set to cross the province tonight and Wednesday. Heavy rain is expected ahead of the cold front over southern portions of the province with about 30 millimetres expected in regions close to the Bay of Fundy. Rainfall warnings have been issued for Charlotte, Saint John and Kings Counties and there is a possibility of the warnings being extended.

Forecasted temperatures and rainfall are conducive to melting the snow pack and the deterioration of ice covers in all regions. River flows are forecast to increase throughout the basin and there is a high probability of ice movement along the St. John River and other river systems across the province within the next two days. With ice movement there is the potential for ice jams to occur as well as associated flooding. People living in all regions should be prepared and remain a safe distance away from waterways.

Ice jams in place since January may hold back water as levels increase, leading to localized flooding. Jams are located at:

●    Nashwaak River at MacLaggan Bridge, Tay Bridge, Durham Bridge and Marysville Bridge
●    Southwest Miramichi River: below the Doaktown Bridge and at Norrad's Bridge in the rural community of Upper Miramichi.

Ice movement has been occurring in several smaller rivers and tributaries. Ice jams have formed at the following locations:

●    Meduxnekeag River in Red Bridge about one kilometre above Belleville and this jam is currently holding back water.
●    Nashwaak River at Taymouth.
●    Rockwell Stream has caused flooding at the Broad Road in Geary which has flooded as a result of ice jamming.
●    Canaan River at Hwy 2 and Route 112 junction.
●    Hammond River between the Route 860 and Lakeside Road intersection to one kilometre above the French Village Covered bridge or Hwy 1.
●    Smith Creek River near the Oldfield Road
●    Southwest Miramichi in the rural Community of Upper Miramichi at the Cache Road and downstream from the Priceville footbridge.

Other areas of concern

●    Ice break-up and movement is occurring in the upper Saint John River. An ice jam has formed upstream from the Village of Baker Brook.
●    Water levels on the Nashwaak River could reach flood stage (21.7 meters) on Wednesday, however flooding may also occur due to ice movement and ice jamming.
●    Water levels in Northern New Brunswick are forecast to increase over the next 48 hours, but ice cover remains intact. However, flooding may occur due to ice movement and ice jamming.
●    Water levels below the Mactaquac dam are expected to approach but not exceed flood stage over the next 48 hours.
●    Several roads across the province are closed due to flooding. Residents are reminded to check the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure's website for a complete list.
●    The Village of St. Hilaire is forecast to be at or slightly above flood stage on Thursday, however flooding may occur due to ice movement and ice jamming.
●    Water levels on the Upper St. John River could reach flood stage (156.3 meters) in Clair on Thursday, however flooding may also occur due to ice movement and ice jamming.

The next River Watch bulletin will be issued on Wednesday, April 16th.

Safety information

●    People living or working along streams, tributaries and rivers are asked to be on the alert for ice movement and the possibility of ice-jam formation resulting in rapid water-level increases.
●    A change in weather conditions could lead to flooding in areas where drainage systems are blocked by ice and snow.
●    Individuals living or working in areas that are prone to flooding should remain aware and take proper precautions to safeguard their homes and possessions.
●    Because of the deterioration of ice covers it is now unsafe to cross waterways on foot, snowmobiles and ATVs.
●    Residents should avoid using boats or kayaks on open water as currents are fast, may be carrying debris and the water is cold.
●    Residents are advised to review their personal flood plan and have an emergency kit on hand.

LINKS:

●    River Watch   
●    Flooded Roads  
●    Environment Canada  
●    Twitter@nbemo_omunb  

15-04-14