Flood Areas Move Towards Recovery

People in Southwestern Nova Scotia are experiencing the second day of significant water level reductions, freedom to return to their homes and encouraging weather.

"The last week has put families, communities and responders in this region to the test," said Ramona Jennex, Minister for Emergency Management. "They have shown Canadians what they are made of, and I know that as the work to rebuild begins, they will face it with the same character and resilience."

Most families in affected areas have returned to their homes. A Red Cross comfort centre in Quinan was closed today, Nov. 12. Drinking water remains readily available at the nearby fire station and Red Cross and other workers are also delivering water to homes that are known to need it.

Residents of the area are asked to continue to use caution on roadways as inspections and repairs are taking place.

Environment Canada reports that clear skies are expected over the next few days. No significant rain is expected until the middle of next week.

Water levels on the Tusket River decreased by 52 centimetres in the last 24 hours and 1.05 meters in the last 48 hours. Nova Scotia Power reported that flood gates are operating normally at the Vaughn Lake Dam, and water is being released at a reduced, but controlled, rate. While water levels are still above normal, Nova Scotia Power said there are no concerns about the overall integrity of dams. Company engineers will inspect the Vaughn Lake and Carleton dams again today.

Dug wells and septic tanks are in general use in the Quinan area, and the Emergency Management Office is cautioning all families in the area to have drinking water from wells tested as soon as possible. Drinking water instructions are being communicated through radio messages, phone calls and word of mouth, with help from the Red Cross and the Department of the Environment.

The local state of emergency for the Raynardton area in Yarmouth County remains in effect. It will end at 8 a.m. Saturday. A Red Cross shelter in Yarmouth is still open today.

County officials report that most Raynardton evacuees living below the Vaughn Lake Dam have returned to their homes. A small number of homes have experienced basement flooding or other water damage and the full extent of damage will not be known for a few days.

Three bridges, including a major bridge on Trunk 3, are impassable in Yarmouth County. Alternative routes are available.

In Argyle, the bridge to Quinan reopened at 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

Argyle CEO Alain Muise said the Quinan bridge is in good shape, but there are some minor road washouts. He said the road is passable for all vehicles, and Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal workers have begun repairs.

Seven families in the same area remain isolated on two side roads where bridges have washed out. These are located at Polly Road in East Kemptville, and the South Belleville Road in Belleville. Mr. Muise said emergency personnel are in contact with the families, and will deliver supplies by boat if needed.

In Barrington, a local state of emergency remains in effect but is expected to end Monday. The issue is water buildup on the Clyde River Road. The road is passable, but the municipality is encouraging people to use it as infrequently as possible.

There is a wide range of information available on provincial government websites. Links can be found on the EMO website at www.gov.ns.ca/emo.

The Emergency Management Office offered these tips for those with flood damage or related concerns:

• Contact insurance agent as soon as possible. Find out if policies include clean-up costs and if the insurance company will arrange for a contractor to do the clean up. Some insurance policies may also include assistance to replace food.
• People in need of financial assistance to meet basic needs can apply for income assistance by contacting the local office of the Department of Community Services. All requests are assessed on an individual basis to determine need. If a person is not eligible, staff can advise of other community supports that may be able to help.
• The Emergency Repair Program and the Provincial Housing Emergency Repair Program offer eligible homeowners assistance for emergency repairs required for houses to be safe. Eligible repairs may include heating systems and essential appliances. Contact the nearest Housing Services Office of the Department of Community Services for more information.
• A disaster financial assistance program may be offered to help communities recover. People should make a list and include photographs or videotape of all damages and items that had to be disposed of after the flood. Keep a record of flood-related activity, such as the amount of time spent cleaning and keep copies of all invoices and receipts.