Canadian province declares state of emergency to fight flooding

OTTAWA, July 22 (Xinhua) -- A provincewide state of emergency has been declared in the eastern Canadian province of Nova Scotia on Saturday in response to severe flooding, authorities said Saturday.

The Nova Scotia Government's Emergency Management Office said in a news release that the order is in place to protect the entire province as the storm progresses.

"This is a very serious event. This flooding has been fast and furious, and we are taking strong action to ensure Nova Scotians are protected," said John Lohr, minister responsible for the Emergency Management Office.

Some areas in the province received up to 300 mm of rain in less than 24 hours since Friday afternoon. According to Environment Canada, some areas could expect an additional 75 to 150 mm of rain.

Premier of Nova Scotia Tim Houston's office said the storm continues to impact the province on Saturday, causing flooding and significantly damaging roads, bridges, dams and other critical infrastructure.

"As the rain and flood risk continues, we need people to stay off the roads so that first responders and critical infrastructure partners can do their work to restore our roads and power and keep people safe," Lohr said.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said four people were missing after the vehicles they traveled in were submerged in floodwaters.

Nova Scotia Power said approximately 4,000 customers lost power at peak due to lightning impacts on power equipment and infrastructure.

According to the office, the state of emergency remains in effect for 14 days, until Aug. 5, unless the government terminates or extends it.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on his social media that federal assistance is being provided, and the federal government is ready to provide additional assistance as needed.