Public Advisory: Update on Adverse Weather

  • Justice and Public Safety
  • Transportation and Infrastructure

November 23, 2021

The Provincial Government is providing an update on the potential impacts of significant rain and wind which is impacting southwestern Newfoundland and southeastern Labrador today and into tomorrow (November 23 and 24).

Rainfall amounts may reach 300 mm in higher elevations; elsewhere Environment Canada is forecasting amounts in the 200 mm range. The Wreckhouse area could see wind gusts up to 150 km/hr with 120 km/hr along the coast.

Similar conditions in the past have caused flooding and washouts. Flood Risk Mapping is available here.

Crews of the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure have been preparing by checking culverts and ditches for debris and removing anything that may obstruct water flow. Updates on highway driving conditions will be provided on the NL 511 app and www.nl511.ca. Motorists are encouraged to check highway conditions before travelling.

Intraprovincial ferry services in southwestern Newfoundland have also been impacted. Ferry schedule information can be found by visiting www.gov.nl.ca/ti/ferryservices/.

First responders and members of the public wishing to report urgent highway conditions, or motorists looking for recent road condition information can contact the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure:

  • Avalon: 709-729-7669
  • Eastern: 709-466-4160
  • Central: 709-292-4444
  • Western: 709-635-4144
  • Labrador: 709-896-7888

Residents of southwestern Newfoundland and southeastern Labrador are asked to take steps to ensure their own personal safety and protect their properties by ensuring sump pumps are in working order and by moving important documents to higher ground. Remember to never cross floodwaters on foot or in a vehicle as the water may be deeper than it looks. Residents should always have a basic emergency kit available and be prepared for at least 72 hours, with food, water, batteries, a portable radio, and prescription medications.

In the event of power outages, a reminder to use a flashlight instead of candles. If you must use candles place them on a secure, clean surface a safe distance (minimum 30 cm) from anything flammable. You should use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. Never use a gas range, stove or oven to heat a home. If you are using a generator because of a power outage, do not place it inside of any structure including garages, carports and sheds. Instead, place the generator at least 20 feet away from your home, down-wind away from open doors, windows and vents.

Visit Be Prepared for more information on emergency preparedness.

We continue to encourage residents to monitor the forecast for the most up-to-date information. Regional forecast information is updated regularly by Environment Canada.

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Media contacts
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca

Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

2021 11 23 12:30 pm