CBRM News

Tropical Storm Arthur in the CBRM

July 4, 2014

SYDNEY, NS - CBRM Emergency Management team received the latest briefing from Environment Canada this afternoon and current indications are that CBRM can expect a total of 30mm of rain and wind gust to 90km per hour. The main storm event is expected to pass over CBRM throughout the afternoon and evening on Saturday July 5, 2014.

The Cape Breton Regional Municipality is preparing for and monitoring Tropical Storm Arthur and is asking residents to take precautions before, during and after the storm.

CBRM is prepared for a storm event of this size and scope and is asking residents to take some small measures to prepare their home and family for the passing of Tropical Storm Arthur.

In the event of a power outage, residents are advised to have flashlights and extra batteries in their home and vehicle. In the case of lengthy power outages, a wind-up or battery powered radio are important items to have in your home.

Homeowners and businesses should look around their property at lawn and garden furniture, hanging plants, compost bins, awnings & tents, children's toys, etc. and imagine them possibly flying through the air. Anything that could become a dangerous projectile in 90km winds should be secured or taken inside. For cottage owners, small boats, wharves and rafts should be secured, protected or removed from the water.

CBRM Parks & Grounds staff will secure or remove garbage cans, picnic tables and other thing which may become projectiles in high winds. Also, CBRM Public Works Department is inspecting and clearing catch-basins, storm sewers and ditches in areas that are prone to flooding.

For residents who use a private well powered by an electrical pump, it is recommended to fill the tub with water for sanitation purposes. The CBRM Water Utility is prepared with backup power generation at its treatment and pumping facilities. Backup generators are fully fueled and staff are on standby in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures.

It is a good idea to top up the fuel in your vehicle, however, driving around during a storm is discouraged as tree branches and live powerlines may be down and could pose significant risk to your safety and the safety of others, including emergency responders. High waves are attractive but can be very dangerous and put sightseers and emergency responders at risk.

Our emergency response partners are ready to respond and the CBRM Emergency Management team is monitoring the storm.

All residents are encouraged to monitor Environment Canada www.weatheroffice.gc.ca or the Weather Network www.theweathernetwork.com

For additional tips on storm preparation follow CBRM on Twitter @cbrmgov and Facebook www.facebook.com/CapeBretonRegionalMuncipality

In the case of any emergency the public are reminded to call 911.