The following statement was issued today by the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Honourable John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety:
On behalf of the Provincial Government please know necessary preparations were made to reduce the risk to residents and damage to infrastructure in advance of the forecasted 300 mm of rain for parts of southwestern Newfoundland and southeastern Labrador.
We know weather events of this nature can be distressing to residents, families, and businesses, but we also know that Newfoundland and Labrador is no stranger to wild weather. We are resilient, and just as we have in the past, we too will get through this storm together.
The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre has been activated and regular updates are being provided to emergency management partners and area municipalities. Power utility companies and health authorities have emergency and contingency plans in place that will be activated if/when the need arises. Additionally, community partners like the Red Cross are on standby ready to be deployed.
From an infrastructure perspective, staff of the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure have been checking culverts and removing debris that could obstruct water flow. Rest assured, updates on highway driving conditions and potential damaged infrastructure will be provided as quickly as possible.
There are simple things residents can do too. Stay home if at all possible – this will not only help keep you and your family safe but will avoid putting emergency responders in harm’s way. 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.
Over the next 24-36 hours please continue to pay close attention to the forecast and public safety information being relayed by official sources.
Stay safe, and take care.
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Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca
Emily-Jane Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca