State of Local Emergency Declared in Parts of Cape Breton

A State of Local Emergency has been declared in parts of Cape Breton as heavy rainfall causes significant flooding, road washouts and transportation disruptions.

The emergency declaration covers affected areas of Inverness, Victoria and Richmond counties, as well as the Town of Port Hawkesbury.

Residents are being urged to avoid all non-essential travel while emergency crews assess damage and respond to incidents.

Widespread flooding has resulted in road closures, evacuations and disruptions to transportation networks. Officials warn conditions remain dangerous and additional closures could occur without warning as rainfall continues and damage assessments progress.

Emergency responders, municipal officials, Department of Public Works crews and other partners are working to assist affected residents and assess damage to roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure.

“Public safety remains our top priority,” said Jerron Hawley, regional manager for emergency services for Western Cape Breton.

“People should stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Reducing traffic in affected areas will help keep residents safe and allow emergency crews to respond quickly and efficiently.”

Officials are reminding motorists never to drive through flooded roads, standing water or washed-out areas, and not to drive around barricades or road closures.

Drivers who encounter water on a roadway are being told to turn around and find another route. Floodwaters can be deeper and moving faster than they appear.

Residents are also asked to give emergency responders, assessment teams and road crews the space they need to work safely and to follow directions from local authorities and emergency officials.

Provincial and municipal emergency management officials continue to monitor the situation and co-ordinate response efforts, with life safety remaining the primary focus.