PHOTOS: 12 takeaways from #NBFlood of 2018
Reporter
Wednesday, May 9, 2018, 8:22 PM - It's been one of the worst flooding disasters to strike New Brunswick since 1973 and while flood-stricken home owners have started the clean up process, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant.
Fortunately, the recent warm and dry weather conditions are helping to stabilize the flood situation in New Brunswick, with water levels beginning to drop quickly.
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Between 5-10 mm of rain will spread across Nova Scotia on Thursday, but southern New Brunswick will likely only see a couple of millimetres with this push of moisture. Despite the improving conditions and receding water levels, emergency officials say it could take months before life for the flood victims returns to normal.
Here are 12 takeaways from this disaster:
1) First responders truly are superheroes
With water levels at historical heights, countless properties damaged and roads covered in water, there was not a single death reported. NB's EMO provided a steady stream of vital updates and emergency officials worked around the clock to keep their community members safe.
2) Not everyone can be helped
Despite countless warnings, many drivers chose to ignore barricades and drive into water-covered roads. Many engines were damaged and there were a number of people in need of a tow. Something to work on for next time.
3) Communities come together in times of crisis
There was no shortage of goodwill as homeowners tried to keep the high water at bay. Thousands of sandbags were filled by residents and community groups pitching in to help out. In Saint John, a group of Syrian refugees helped to fill sandbags for people they had never met.
4) Flooding happens faster than you think
A large snowpack in northern New Brunswick didn't take long to melt away at a rapid pace. It would be great if each year was consistent, but it's not. There were no cool nights and warm days, it was straight to the heat. Always have an evacuation plan in place.
5) In times of crisis, heroes emerge
People living on Darlings Island are no strangers to flooded roads leading to the island during springtime. Many have kayaks and canoes for that very reason. This time was different. Uber Rob, as he known locally, donated his speedboat, gas and time to ferry hundreds of residents back and forth through the deep waters.
6) Pets need rescue too
This German Shepherd (pictured above) was not too pleased to see first responders enter the house to evacuate his owners. He needed to be muzzled and caged, but he eventually got a boat ride to dry land. It's important to develop an evacuation plan for our furry friends as well.
7) Don't be a looky-loo
The last thing residents need in a time of crisis is a slow route out due to rubbernecking. Seeing for yourself how high the water levels are in your community is tempting, but stick to viewing from a distance or on T.V. and try not to gawk.
8) Sandbagging made easier
For those who needed to fill up sandbags quickly, a consistent theme was two pylons flipped upside down and stuck between two barricades. This allows the sand to funnel down into the bag without needing someone to hold it. It's a hack that doubles production.
9) By land, by sea, by rail
In Saint John, NB Southern Railway offered it's services to shuttle people living on Westfield Road to Bay Street. Their road was flooded and it would have meant a long walk around. The Coast Guard put boats in the water in Grand Bay-Westfield in case there was need for an emergency evacuation. People were stranded, but organizations stepped up to provide resources to give residents peace of mind.
10) Deviants exist
There were reports that a man awoke to find three masked men in his flooded home. This worst case scenario is essentially the reason some people just don't want to leave. They fled on canoe, but were eventually arrested.
11) Living on the water comes at a price
The Kennebecasis River is what makes the town of Rothesay such an attractive place to live. Beautiful sunsets over the water, excellent boating and incredible views. After this flood, it may be time to consider how close to the water houses should be built. In Fredericton, many areas along the riverfront are designed as green space to help lessen the blow of the annual spring freshet. It may be something all communities should consider now.
12) Don't drink the water
Historic flood levels have pushed more than just water ashore. Sewers have backed up and wells are contaminated. This is an extreme health hazard and something communities won't recover from quickly. Be sure to test your water frequently and avoid wading through it until further notice form local officials.
