Heavy Swells Continue with Possibility of Coastal Flooding in Parts of Eastern and Southern Newfoundland – VOCM

(Photo: Ashley @Ashley_LBMCOC)

Heavy swells and rolling seas caused by a storm system parked off Greenland are generating a lot of attention and social media posts, but officials are warning people of the dangers of unpredictable wave action.

Environment Canada says high waves, pounding surf and higher-than-normal water levels are expected to continue for another few days off the east coast.

Thats prompted a warning from Public Safety about the chance of coastal flooding. The greatest risk could come around Saturday mornings high tide, with heavy seas extending to parts of the southwestern Avalon and eastern side of the Burin Peninsula this weekend.

Residents are asked to use caution near the coastline and be prepared in case of damage to roads or other infrastructure.

Advisory! Ongoing sea swells & storm surge conditions are occurring, causing significant damages to the breakwater at Long Pd. Forecasted conditions are expected to continue until Tuesday. Please use caution & stay away from the area. Repairs will begin when safe to be onsite.

Conception Bay South (@TownofCBS) January 28, 2021

Meanwhile, the Town of Conception Bay South is advising residents to use caution after a large portion of the Long Pond breakwater was washed away by storm surge. High sea swells eroded an estimated 200 meters of the breakwater.

Mayor Terry French says the situation is volatile, as there is a risk for significant damage in the coming days. The town encourages anyone with nearby property to take steps to ensure safety and reduce the risk of damage.

(Photo courtesy Pierre Gauvreau via Twitter.)

The town has hired an engineering firm to assess the damage and repair the breakwater when it is deemed safe to do so. However, due to the extent of the work, that may not happen until next week.

Depending on forecasts for the weekend, Mayor French says the town is considering setting up barricades to prevent access to high-risk areas.

An update is expected today.

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Heavy Swells Continue with Possibility of Coastal Flooding in Parts of Eastern and Southern Newfoundland - VOCM