New Brunswick Roads Damaged, Sussex Homes Flooded Again

Residents of New Brunswick are grappling with the aftermath of severe flash flooding that has left roads in ruins and homes submerged. The small community of Havelock witnessed a crucial route being severed, while Sussex residents face the harsh reality of repeated floods, despite previous promises of mitigation.

Route 112 Washout Disrupts Daily Life in Havelock

The sudden deluge on Thursday morning rendered Route 112 impassable, forcing locals to find alternative paths, extending travel times significantly. Havelock Fire Department Chief, Anthony DeMott, expressed concerns over the potential delay in emergency response times, emphasizing the critical impact on community safety. Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation is actively assessing the damage across the province, signifying the widespread nature of the disaster.

Sussex Battles Floodwaters Once More

Approximately 40 kilometers from the initial washout, the town of Sussex faced its own crisis as Trout Creek overflowed, affecting hundreds. Stephane Gagnon, a resident who had previously suffered in the 2014 floods, recounted the rapid rise of water levels that led to significant damage to his property. The relentless flood not only caused physical damages estimated at $20,000 but also left the community in distress. Fire Chief Tony Reicker highlighted the complexities of rescue operations during such floods, while the town’s CAO, Scott Hatcher, reported that 24 individuals are still displaced, receiving aid from the Canadian Red Cross.

A Call for Long-Term Solutions

In light of the recurrent flooding, there is a strong appeal for federal support to fund flood mitigation plans, including the construction of diversion channels. Despite the urgent need for such measures, the residents of Sussex and surrounding areas remain in a vulnerable state, facing the daunting task of rebuilding their lives amidst uncertainty. The recent deluge serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to combat the escalating threat of climate change and its impact on communities.

As New Brunswick reels from the effects of this natural disaster, the resilience of its people is put to the test. The repeated incidents of flooding underscore the critical need for immediate and long-term mitigation efforts to safeguard the region against future calamities, ensuring the well-being and security of its inhabitants.