FREDERICTON (GNB) – Residents and those visiting the province are urged to be prepared and stay informed as the impact of Hurricane Lee will be felt in New Brunswick this weekend.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, Hurricane Lee is expected to bring wind and rain to most of the province beginning Saturday morning through Sunday afternoon. The exact track of the system will determine the extent to which areas will be the most impacted.
“Public safety is my number one priority, and I want people to be prepared for this storm,” said Public Safety Minister Kris Austin. “Even if Hurricane Lee is downgraded to a tropical storm, that does not mean we will escape high winds, heavy rain and power outages.”
“The storm is getting weaker, but it is growing in size,” said Kyle Leavitt, the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization director. “Today and Friday are the time to prepare for this storm. There is and will be a lot of information to help you make good decisions, but perhaps the easiest and best thing you can do is exercise common sense. Stay informed and stay safe.”
Possible conditions include:
- Most areas of the province could see peak wind speeds Saturday of between 60-80 km/h. However, exposed coastal areas could see peak wind speeds of 100 km/h.
- Total rainfall amounts in the province will range from 50 to more than 100 millimetres.
- Elevated water levels, very large waves and rough surf are expected on Saturday in the Bay of Fundy. Waves of four to six metres are possible.
These kinds of conditions can lead to power outages, localized flooding and road closures.
The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization is ready to co-ordinate with and support local governments and first responders to assist residents and communities, should the need arise.
New Brunswickers can take steps to protect their families and their properties, including:
- monitoring local forecasts;
- making sure catch basins and gutters are clear and are guiding water away from the home;
- securing or storing lawn furniture and other items on the property to prevent damage from high winds;
- having a 72-hour emergency preparedness kit.
Power outages are possible. To prepare for or report an outage, visit NB Power’s website. Residents who have a generator should ensure they have sufficient fuel and that it is in proper working order. Those who have a generator but have never used it are encouraged to read the instructions on how to operate it safely.
Anyone travelling in the province this weekend should monitor conditions, especially if they are unfamiliar with the region. If driving is necessary, adjust speed and route to match road conditions. Localized water pooling on roads and washouts are possible. For road conditions, dial 511 within New Brunswick.
Appropriate measure should also be taken to ensure food safety if power outages occur. More information and tips on steps that can be taken in advance is available online.
More information about storm preparedness is available online.
