**** HRM Media Release
Municipal update on storm impacts – July 22, 5 p.m.
The Halifax Regional Municipality is advising residents of the following updates and impacts to municipal services as a result of the storm system. The following information is current as of 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 22.
Flooding
Residents are advised to stay off the roads as there is significant damage to roads and infrastructure. Conditions are not safe for vehicles and pedestrians at this time. Extreme caution is also advised near the Sackville River and residents are advised to stay away from flood water in all areas.
Flash flooding has occurred in numerous areas of the municipality, with many roads washed out and impassable. Periods of heavy rain are expected to continue until tomorrow, as well as the risk of thunder and lightning. Residents dealing with flooding on their properties are asked to shelter in place, unless it is an emergency. This is to ensure roads are clear so they can be repaired and reopened in a timely manner. See a map of blocked roads due to flooding. Crews continue to assess locations and the map will be updated as new areas are determined.
Emergency flooding calls are to be directed to Halifax Water at 902.420.9287; call volumes remain high, and residents are asked for their patience. Residents who notice damage to roads and infrastructure are asked to report it to 311 or email hrm_emo@halifax.ca.
The Halifax Water system is safe to drink. See the Province of Nova Scotia’s fact sheet on using well water after a flood.
Halifax Transit
Due to flooding throughout the municipality and extensive road damage, there are significant delays and detours throughout the Halifax Transit system. Updates will be shared on halifax.ca/transit, as well as @hfxtransit on Twitter.
Evacuation Centres
The municipality has opened an evacuation centre for residents dealing with power outages and flooding:
- The East Dartmouth Community Centre (50 Caledonia Road, Dartmouth) will remain open until further notice. The Red Cross will be on-site to provide support for those displaced by the floods.
There are currently approximately 150 residents displaced by the floods.
An evacuation centre is a type of emergency facility which is opened when residents have to be evacuated from their homes due to a specific emergency event and where evacuees are received, needs are identified, and food, water and overnight accommodations are provided.
Parks and Recreation
The Halifax Pride Parade originally scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed and will be rescheduled.
The Bedford Outdoor Pool is significantly damaged and in need of extensive repairs. The pool will remain closed until further notice.
For more information, follow @hfxgov on Twitter, or visit: halifax.ca/flood
