Extreme rainfall overnight dumped as much as 200 millimeters (7.9 inches) of rain in parts of Nova Scotia, causing power outages and flooding.
CTV Atlantic’s Chief Meteorologist Kalin Mitchell estimated Friday night that between 30 to 50 millimeters (0.8 to 2.0 inches) of rain fell over communities from Port Mouton all the way to Fall River.
Some areas, such as Bedford, Timberlea, and Sackville had rainfall that exceeded 200 millimeters (7.9 inches) in a matter of just seven hours.
Mitchell noted Friday that the rainfall totals are “almost certainly” going to break records for July 21, with the possibility of some areas setting new highs on any day on record in July.
By Saturday morning, authorities were urging many people to evacuate. “Dam overflow – Evacuation order for the St Croix river system area. Dam at risk of breaching,” the province’s Emergency Management Office announced, in a text and tweet. That evacuation order has since been canceled.
Nova Scotia Power tweeted Saturday: “We have activated our Emergency Operations Centre in response to the thunderstorms.
“As the storm continues, bringing lighting and flooding to parts of the province, there may be restoration delays due to road conditions. We are working closely with Emergency Management Offices.”
Meanwhile, CBC Canada News is reporting that on Saturday afternoon, the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg issued a news release urging those who live around Fancy Lake, including on “lands situated on Conquerall Mills Road from William Hebb Road to Conquerall Road to Highway 103 to Century Drive, including all of Trunk 3” to immediately leave the area.
A state of local emergency has been declared. An additional update is expected by 6 p.m., the municipality said.
People in need of overnight shelter are being told to register in person at the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre, on 135 N Park St. in Bridgewater, where a comfort center will be open until 8 p.m. AT.
Elsewhere on the South Shore, residents along the Mersey River in Queens County, near Liverpool, are being told to prepare a “go bag” in case an evacuation is required due to rising water levels.
