Hurricane Lee Expected To Arrive Overnight In New Brunswick

New Brunswick residents and visitors are being urged to take precautionary measures as Hurricane Lee approaches the region. According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, the hurricane is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall to many areas of the province over the weekend.

Premier Blaine Higgs emphasized the need for preparedness, stating, "We want people to take this seriously. We are doing everything we can to prepare, including working with our partners and encouraging New Brunswickers to take the steps necessary to keep themselves and their families safe. Everyone needs to do their part."

Kyle Leavitt, the Director of the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization, stressed the importance of readiness, saying, "Regardless of where Hurricane Lee lands, New Brunswickers need to be prepared. Your actions during a storm are as important as your preparations beforehand. Once the storm starts, if you are able to, stay home and stay safe."

Anticipated conditions include:

• Peak wind speeds of 60-80 km/h in most areas on Saturday, with stronger gusts of 90-100 km/h along the Bay of Fundy.
• Total rainfall amounts ranging from 50 to more than 100 millimeters.
• Elevated water levels, large waves (up to six meters), and rough surf in the Bay of Fundy on Saturday, with the possibility of storm surge.
• These conditions may lead to power outages, localized flooding, and road closures.

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization is prepared to coordinate with local governments and first responders to assist residents and communities if needed.

New Brunswickers are advised to take several steps to protect their families and properties, including:

• Monitoring local forecasts.
• Ensuring that catch basins and gutters are clear to divert water away from homes.
• Securing of storing lawn furniture and other items to prevent wind damage.
• Having a 72-hour emergency preparedness kit, including essentials like water, non-perishable food, a manual can opener, a battery or crank-powered radio, prescription medications, first aid supplies, a flashlight, candles, matches or a lighter, batteries, cash, spare keys, copies of emergency plans, important documents, face masks, and hand sanitizer.

Power outages are possible, and residents with generators should ensure they have enough fuel and that their generators are in working order. Those unfamiliar with generator operation should read the instructions on how to use them safely.

Travel conditions may become hazardous, so it is recommended to limit travel to essential purposes in at-risk areas and adjust driving to road and weather conditions. For road updates, residents can dial 511 within New Brunswick.

Due to the impending hurricane, some provincial parks may close or alter their access and services. Updates are available on the NB Parks Facebook page.

Additionally, residents should take measures to ensure food safety in the event of power outages. More information and tips on preparedness can be found online.