Floodwaters might be retreating, but safety hazards persist, public warned

Emergency officials say the end ofsevere flooding is in sight, and water levels could drop to near or below flood stage by the end of the week.

The Trans-Canada Highway between Fredericton and Moncton reopened Wednesday.

MRDC reopened one lane in each direction along a nine-kilometre stretch near Jemsegfrom kilometre 330 to339 around 12:30 p.m., saidAl Giberson, the general manager.

Speed isreduced to 70 km/h because there is still some water close tothe road, he said.

Water levels decreasing

In Fredericton, water levels are expected to hover around 6.9 metres on Wednesday dropping from 7.3 metres Tuesday.Flood stage is 6.5 metres.

In Maugerville, water levels are expected to sit at 6.4 metres. Flood stage is sixmetres.

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In Jemseg, water levels will drop to six metres. Flood stage is 4.3 metres.

In Grand Lake, water levels will decrease to 6.1 metres. Flood stage is five metres.

In Sheffield-Lakeville Corner, water levels will drop to 6.3 metres. Flood stage is 4.8 metres.

In Oak Point, water levels will drop to 5.2 metres. Flood stage is 4.7 metres.

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In the Quispamsis-Saint John area, water levels will be at five metres. Flood stage is 4.2 metres.

Tina Simpkin, a CBCmeteorologist, said the province will see cool and dry temperatures throughout the day. But the province will see northwesterly wind gusts travelling up to 40 km/h.

Water could be contaminated

The Red Cross says486 households and 1,207 individuals have registered with the organization.

Although water levels are dropping, emergency official are continuing to remind people to remain vigilantand avoid the water, because it could contain sewage.

When cleaning and disinfecting, residents shouldwear gloves, rubber boots, protective eyewear and a face mask, said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health.

Water from flood-affected wells that may have been contaminated should not be used even if boiled, Russell said.

Well-water test kits will be available for people who fear their water may be contaminated by flooding, and Russell said more information on the kits will be released soon.

How the St. John River floods

6 years ago

Duration 1:26

How high will the St. John River rise this spring, and does the Mactaquac Dam have anything to do with it? A New Brunswick flood, explained.

Residents affected by flooding can report damage by calling 1-888-298-8555 or byregistering online.

The Damage Report Line program allows residents, tenants, small businesses and not-for-profit organizations to receive information and register their flood-related damage.