Port Hawkesbury’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) describes the aftermath of a heavy rainfall event that brought over 200 millimetres of rain to parts of Cape Breton as unprecedented. Terry Doyle emphasized the magnitude of the damage, stating that it surpasses anything witnessed previously.
Speaking from an emergency coordination center, Doyle highlighted the severity of the situation in Richmond County, particularly around Bras d’Or Lake, where numerous roads, bridges, and driveways have been washed out. Emergency measures were implemented in Victoria, Inverness, and Richmond counties following the declaration of a state of emergency on Saturday.
Inverness County Warden Bonny MacIsaac reported widespread road washouts and fallen trees, urging residents to avoid flooded areas due to potential hazards. She recommended checking the provincial website, 511, for real-time road condition updates before traveling.
The impact of the rainfall includes flooding, power outages, and extensive road damage. Some residents are stranded due to road closures, raising concerns about access to essential services. Efforts are underway to restore power and address the challenges caused by the storm.
Rainfall warnings remain in effect for Victoria and Cape Breton counties, with additional rain expected until Monday morning. Nova Scotia Power reported over 5,000 customers without electricity, mainly in Chéticamp. Local support centers have been set up to assist residents with charging devices and providing essential services.
Municipalities in Cape Breton have established a toll-free support line for reporting non-emergency issues. Residents are advised to stay informed and cautious as recovery efforts continue in the affected areas.
