Release
Department of Justice and Public Safety, Department of Environment and Local Government
March 11, 2026
FREDERICTON (GNB) – The 2026 River Watch program is underway, keeping New Brunswickers updated on river conditions, possible ice jams and flood risks during the spring freshet.
“We are asking New Brunswickers to remain vigilant and to not underestimate the potential for impacts,” said Public Safety Minister Robert Gauvin. “We recognize that the province has been spared from significant flooding in recent years, but waterways are always a threat this time of year.”
During the coming weeks, teams from the Department of Environment and Local Government and the Department of Justice and Public Safety will closely monitor river ice and snowmelt near waterways, particularly in the Saint John River basin. Agencies from federal, provincial and United States governments will assist in this effort, as will partners such as NB Power and local watershed groups.
“Flood forecasting relies on the ability of New Brunswick’s Hydrology Centre to analyze several key factors, including anticipated temperature variations, snowmelt, river ice movement, and forecasted rainfall,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage. “The Hydrology Centre does exceptional work to provide accurate forecasting, but these factors can shift quickly, so we encourage residents not to wait, but to get ready now.”
Each day, River Watch officials receive weather briefings and compile information from multiple sources to develop river models and forecasts. Updates will be available online via the River Watch mobile platform and website.
The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization will share flood and weather warnings through social media channels when warranted.
During the River Watch season, New Brunswickers are advised to:
· Prepare for potential flooding, have a plan to evacuate, and ensure they can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.
· Move valuable belongings to higher ground if their property is near a waterway or flood-prone area.
· Avoid riverbanks, which can become hazardous with cold water, fast currents and debris.
· Avoid crossing waterways on foot, by vehicle or on snowmobiles or ATVs as ice deteriorates and becomes unsafe.
· Call the toll-free River Watch line, 1-888-561-4048, for recorded updates on water levels, forecasts and advisories.
· Get road conditions and closures by calling 511 or checking online.
· Stay informed by visiting the River Watch website for tips, forecasts and advisories, or follow the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization on Facebook.
· Report significant ice jams or rising water levels to the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization at 1-800-561-4034.
The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization oversees the province’s emergency preparedness and co-ordinates response and recovery efforts during crises. It also administers programs for disaster financial assistance.
Government-provided disaster financial assistance covers uninsured losses. People are advised to contact their insurance providers about the availability of overland flood insurance.
11-03-26
Related links
New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization’s Facebook page
Road closures and conditions – 511 highway and traffic information service
Related topics
Media Contact(s)
Paul Bradley, communications, Department of Justice and Public Safety, [email protected].