FREDERICTON (GNB) – Water levels in the Saint John River have exceeded flood stage in the village of Gagetown and are forecast to remain so until Sunday.

River levels in Saint-Hilaire and Jemseg are expected to slightly exceed flood stage on Thursday and Friday respectively. The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization is not anticipating widespread flooding effects in any communities given the current forecast but is ready to respond if the situation changes.

River Watch officials are closely watching waterway conditions across the province.

Residents can report localized flooding at any time by calling 1-800-561-4034. They can also monitor the latest lower Saint John River five-day forecast and the latest 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 activated 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 between the Department of Environment and Local Government and the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization of the Department of Public Safety. Other partners include NB Power, watershed groups, and 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.