Residents asked to prepare for heavy rainfall, rapid snow melt and strong wind gusts

With a rainfall warning currently in effect for Saint John, the Saint John Emergency Management Organization (SJ-EMO) is asking residents to be prepared.

The current forecast is for snow to begin Wednesday night, changing to rain, at times heavy, on Thursday morning, with wind gusts of up to 80 km/h. The morning commute may be challenging with the risk of ice as the snow changes to rain. The rain will continue through the day on Thursday with warmer temperatures that could cause rapid snow melt and flooding. Temperatures are then expected to drop overnight Thursday into Friday with the risk of ice and slippery conditions. 

Please be aware and be cautious when walking or driving. The City will continue to monitor updated forecasts as the weather event approaches. 

The City’s Public Works and Transportation crews are preparing trucks with road barricades and signage and will continue to inspect and clear of snow major catch basins and drainage gutters across the City. Crews will transition from road and sidewalk salting or plowing response to a flood response as needed. The SJ-EMO will monitor the weather and respond if necessary. 

What you can do to help: 

• If able, clear catch basins and gutters from any obstructions near homes. 
• Tie down or move loose items around your property. 
• Use caution and be safe around coastal areas. 
• Reduce driving speeds, keep headlights on, observe all posted signage and barricades and avoid driving through any areas that are covered in water. 
• Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit. 

To report flooding, contact the City’s Customer Service Centre at 658-4455.

To report a fallen power line or power outages, call Saint John Energy at 658-5252 or visit them online. 

For emergencies, call 911. 

For updates, visit www.saintjohn.ca, follow us on Twitter or Facebook and local media.