Heavy rainfall conditions expected for South Coast

NLIS 10
November 10, 2005
(Municipal Affairs)

The Newfoundland and Labrador Emergency Measures (NLEMO) has been advised by Environment Canada that the province could be affected by adverse weather conditions on the South Coast of Newfoundland. A heavy rainfall warning has been issued for St. Georges, Channel-Port aux Basques - Burgeo, Ramea - Connaigre, Burin Peninsula.

Environment Canada forecast: Rain heavy at times giving 50 to 70 millimetres today and tonight. A deep frontal trough of low pressure approaching from the west will move to lie over western Newfoundland Friday morning then over eastern sections in the evening. Strong southeast winds gusting to 100 km/h will develop well ahead of the trough over southern coastal sections today. Gusts up to 120 km/h are forecast at Wreckhouse. Winds will diminish tonight over western sections and Friday morning or afternoon over eastern sections. Additionally periods of rain, heavy at times, will accompany the trough. Rainfall amounts of 50 to 70 millimetres are forecast today, tonight, and Friday over southwestern Newfoundland and portions of the South Coast. The rain will taper to scattered showers Friday morning or afternoon behind the trough.

Municipalities, home and business owners and fish harvesters are advised to take every precaution to prevent damages that could be caused by any potential flooding. The public should be listening for updated forecasts and act accordingly.

Some steps to follow are:

Ensure all drains are free from debris, clean out window and door wells, close all windows etc.;

Ensure that sump pumps are working;

Remove, in a safe manner, dead tree branches from trees that could pose a hazard;

Ensure that cell phones are charged and that you have fresh batteries for a portable radio should the power go out;

Should basement flooding occur, ensure that the power is shut off at the main breaker before stepping into water. Care should be taken to prevent electrocution. If you are unsure call a licensed electrician;

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 but advise your utility company immediately;

Municipalities are advised to ensure that all measures such as the clearing of storm sewers, culverts, bridges, drains, etc. are free from debris and that emergency personal are available should the need arise.

All residents are advised to use caution in undertaking theses preventative measures. NLEMO is maintaining close contact with Environment Canada to monitor the progress of these weather systems.

For more weather information specific to your area contact the following Web sites. In the St. John's area call 772-5534.

Radar Imagery

St. John's: //www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/radar/index_e.html?id=WTP
Corner Brook: //www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/radar/index_e.html?id=XME
Satellite Imagery: //www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/satellite/animateweb_e.html?imagetype=
www.weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/hurricane/track_e.html

Media contact: Heather MacLean, Communications (709) 729-1983, 690-2498

2005 11 10 4:10 p.m.

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