*Sending on behalf of the Municipalities of Inverness, Victoria and Richmond Counties, and the Town of Port Hawkesbury
FOR IMMEDIATE USE
SEPTEMBER 5, 2026
State of Local Emergency Declared in Parts of Cape Breton; Residents Urged to Avoid Travel
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Residents are being urged to avoid all non-essential travel as heavy rainfall continues to cause significant flooding, road washouts and transportation disruptions across parts of Cape Breton.
Municipal officials have declared a State of Local Emergency in affected areas as response efforts continue and crews assess damage to roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure. Widespread flooding has resulted in road closures, evacuations and disruptions to transportation networks, and conditions remain dangerous.
Emergency responders, municipal officials, Department of Public Works crews and other partners are working around the clock to respond to incidents, support affected residents and assess damage.
"Public safety remains our top priority," said Jerron Hawley, Regional Manager for Emergency Services, for Western Cape Breton "People should stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Reducing traffic in affected areas will help keep residents safe and allow emergency crews to respond quickly and efficiently."
Residents are reminded to:
- Not travel unless your trip is absolutely necessary.
- Check 511 Nova Scotia before travelling and be prepared for conditions to change quickly.
- Never drive through flooded roads, standing water, washed-out areas, or around barricades and road closures.
- Turn around and find another route if you encounter water on the roadway.
- Remember that floodwaters may be deeper and moving faster than they appear.
- Give emergency responders, assessment teams and road crews the space they need to work safely.
- Follow instructions from local authorities and emergency officials.
Officials caution that additional road closures may occur without warning as rainfall continues and damage assessments progress. Residents should expect travel disruptions and delays throughout affected areas.
Provincial and Municipal emergency management officials continue to monitor the situation closely and coordinate response efforts. Life safety remains the primary focus as crews work to assist impacted communities and restore transportation routes.
Residents should monitor local media, 511 Nova Scotia and official government channels for the latest information on road closures, weather conditions and public safety updates.
For current road conditions, visit 511 Nova Scotia .
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Media Contact:
Jerron Hawley
Regional Manager for Emergency Services - Western Cape Breton
Phone: 902-295-0580