Adverse weather forecasted March 30 and 31

The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures (NLEMO) has been advised by both Environment Canada and AMEC Environmental that the island portion of the province is forecasted to receive extreme weather over the next 36 to 48 hours. Heavy snowfall is expected in western portions on the island while the south coast and the Avalon Peninsula could see a mixture of snow and rain. Of particular concern is the 100 mm of rainfall forecasted for the Burin Peninsula and the potential for a similar amount of rainfall on the Avalon.

Conditions could result in reduced visibility in the areas affected by snowfall and flooding in areas affected by high rainfall. Given the impacts of recent events such as Hurricane Gabrielle in September 2001, flooding in Badger in February 2003, and flooding on the west coast in March 2003, as well as the damages in Nova Scotia caused by Hurricane Juan which resulted in millions of dollars in damage and great personal loss, the general public is advised to take appropriate actions to mitigate against possible damage.

Municipalities, home and business owners are advised to take every precaution to prevent damages that could be caused by flooding, excessive snowfall and high winds.

Some steps to follow are:

• ensure all drains are free from snow, ice and debris, clean out window and door wells, close all windows etc.;
• ensure that sump pumps are working;
• any equipment stored in areas prone to flooding should be removed;
• ensure that cell phones are charged and that you have fresh batteries for a portable radio should the power go out;
• should basements flood, ensure that the power is shut off at the main breaker before stepping into water; care should be taken to prevent electrocution;
• property owners should advise their municipal officials if they become aware of excessive flooding on streets or blocked drains or culverts;
• should you become aware of downed power lines, do not touch these and advise Newfoundland Power immediately;
• municipalities are advised to ensure that all measures are taken to clear storm sewers, culverts, bridges, drains etc. of snow, ice and debris and that emergency personnel are available should the need arise;
• all residents are advised to use caution in undertaking these preventative measures;
• extreme caution should be taken in areas prone to white-outs or flooding

Media contact: Vanessa Colman-Sadd, Communications, (709) 729-1983, 682-6593

2005 03 29                        12:35 p.m.