Atlantic Canada’s province of Nova Scotia is reeling from the impact of the heaviest rain witnessed in more than half a century, resulting in floods causing “unimaginable” damage and leaving four people missing, including two children, officials reported on Saturday.
The storm began on Friday and brought an astonishing downpour of over 25 cm (10 inches) of rain in just 24 hours – an amount equivalent to what the region typically receives in three months. The ensuing floods wreaked havoc on roads, bridges, and buildings, washing away crucial infrastructure and leaving communities in disarray.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston expressed concern over the “scary, significant situation,” stating that at least seven bridges would require replacement or rebuilding. The property damage to homes has been overwhelming, and the province is seeking substantial support from the federal government to aid in recovery efforts.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau conveyed his deep concern about the floods and pledged Ottawa’s assistance, assuring that “we will be there” for Nova Scotia during this crisis.
The floods in Halifax, the province’s largest city, and four other regions have prompted authorities to declare a state of emergency. The regional municipality in Halifax reported “significant damage to roads and infrastructure” and urged residents to stay home and avoid using cars. Pictures from social media showed abandoned cars almost submerged in floodwaters, and rescue workers had to employ boats to assist people in affected areas.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston revealed that two children were missing after their car became submerged, and another incident involved a man and a youth missing after their vehicle drove into deep water.
At its peak, over 80,000 people were left without power due to severe weather conditions. Environment Canada forecasts continued torrential rain in the eastern part of the province, extending into Sunday, which heightens the potential for further damage.
Halifax Mayor Mike Savage emphasised that the situation remains dynamic and cautioned people not to assume that the worst is over. The city has experienced rains of “biblical proportions,” and the impact is comparable to a hurricane that struck in 1971, according to Canadian Broadcasting Corp meteorologist Ryan Snoddon.
Earlier on Saturday, authorities ordered residents in northern Nova Scotia to evacuate due to concerns about a dam near the St. Croix River system potentially breaching. However, the evacuation order was later cancelled.
