Heavy rain prompts flood concerns in Atlantic Canada, officials say preparation started years ago

Wednesday, April 9, 2014, 12:24 PM -

Over 40 mm of rain fell across parts of the Maritimes on Tuesday helping to melt some of the mountains of snow left from a punishing winter.

Several roads and properties were flooded and officials have been keeping a close eye on river water levels as well.

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City crews in Nova Scotia say the drainage system had a tough time keeping up, creating overland flooding on many streets and resulting in dangerous driving conditions.

In Truro, Nova Scotia, heavy rain forced a road closure along the Salmon River, but the mayor says for the most part, the situation is already well under control.

The Salmon River is running quickly in #Truro this AM pic.twitter.com/G1YRPvvFSx

— Nathan Coleman (@NateTWN) April 9, 2014

"Our preparation started about two years ago with the County of Colchester," says Truro mayor Bill Mills. "What we embarked on was a flood mitigation plan and we have a flood committee that’s together to look at all aspects of flooding. Not just in the central core area, but I would say a good 30 km radius around the area and basically we’re looking at everything that could contribute to some kind of a backup- storm water runoff – these kinds of things. The goal is to get it unblocked and free flowing and get it out on the flood plain where it’s supposed to go."

"It was a rainy day on Tuesday with significant rainfall reported across much of Nova Scotia," says Weather Network meteorologist Brett Soderholm. "Significant rainfall is expected throughout the Avalon Peninsula on Wednesday, but will clear out by Thursday morning."

Wondering how the rest of the month will play out? Check out this in depth analysis from meteorologist Brad Rousseau.