People return home as floodwaters recede in Nova Scotia

Many water-weary people in Nova Scotia were expected to return home on Thursday after floodwaters receded and relieved the pressure on local dams.

Nova Scotia’s Emergency Management Office said water levels have dropped on most rivers and lakes, including those behind the Vaughn Lake Dam. The dam raised alarm bells for both its operator, Nova Scotia Power, and the provincial government and prompted dozens of homes to be evacuated over the weekend.

By Thursday, the water at the dam fell by 25 centimetres and Nova Scotia Power was opening the gates to gradually release water.

The local state of emergency has been lifted in Argyle and by late Thursday night, 30 families were expected to return home via a temporary pedestrian walkway erected along a flooded causeway bridge.

"Everyone is relieved that the situation in southwestern Nova Scotia is beginning to improve," said Ramona Jennex, Minister of Emergency Management in a statement on Thursday. "Residents, first responders, local leaders, emergency managers and private partners have worked hard to keep their communities safe."

Local emergency officials in Argyle said they were not yet aware how many houses and buildings have been destroyed, said Peggy Boudreau of the Municipality of Argyle.

The weather also will assist in the recovery, according to Environment Canada, which has forecast five days of sunshine and dry skies.

Despite the progress, 20 homes located below the Tusket dam remained evacuated and local states of emergency were still in place in Yarmouth and in Barrington. Many bridges and roads also remain closed for inspection.

The province is advising residents returning to waterlogged homes and land to contact their insurance agents, test their wells, check their gas connections and avoid using flooded appliances and electrical outlets. The province also is advising people to be prepared to throw out food and household items ruined by water, mud and debris or contaminated by sewage.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Stephen Harper pledged to provide disaster assistance once the province assesses its needs.