Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flood history database?
The flood history database is a collection of information about past floods in New Brunswick. It is based in part on the contents of a report authored by Allan Kindervater and first published by Environment Canada, Water Planning and Management Branch, Inland Waters Directorate, Atlantic Region in 1976, and updated in 1985. A further major update was completed in 2000 by the New Brunswick Department of the Environment, managed by Brian Burrell and Bruce Walker. At this stage the information was organised in report format. It was re-organised and transferred to a searchable database in 2005. Further updates have occurred periodically since that time. The database is currently managed by staff of the New Brunswick Department of the Environment and Local Government, Environmental Evaluation and Reporting Branch, and Climate Change Secretariat.
What sort of information is in this database?
The database contains descriptive accounts of floods: the areas and communities affected, what happened, flood causes, and details of costs of damages, if available. In some cases photos and other information is available.
Where does the information come from?
Information in the database has been assembled from many sources including 30 different newspapers, government records, and technical reports.
How complete is this database?
The database contains information on hundreds of flood events, and probably has at least some information on most of the major flood event affecting New Brunswick since 1900. However some may have been missed, and details of additional flood events is welcomed. Please send your information to elg-info@gnb.ca.
How do I use the flood history database?
Enter a location of interest into the search box and click "Search". Alternatively, select 'Advanced search' . Results will appear in the form of a table. For any entry of interest, click on "Details" to display the information available for that flood event.
I have information about a flood event that does not appear to be in the database. How can I add this information?
Please email your information to elg-info@gnb.ca
I want to know more about floods affecting a specific location. Who can I ask?
Long-time local residents are a good source of information. If you live in a municipality, ask at your city hall or municipal offices. Municipal engineers and surveyors can often help. If you have other questions relating to the historic flood database system, please email the Department of Environment and Local Government at elg-info@gnb.ca.
Does this database show which areas are in floodplains or flood prone areas?
No. For information on mapped flood risk areas in New Brunswick, please refer to the Flood Information application on GeoNB.
I think some information I see in the database might be incorrect. Who do I tell?
Updates and corrections are welcomed. Please email your information to elg-info@gnb.ca
Why was the flood history database created?
The database was created to provide a factual reference source of information on floods in New Brunswick that could be accessed and searched quickly and easily. The information is of use to local planners, land managers, property owners, civil engineers or even local historians.
Will the flood history database be updated routinely?
The database is updated periodically (typically every 1-2 years) as information is received and as events occur. There may be delays in providing updates depending on resources and other priorities.
Where does the information on costs come from? Are the dollar amounts adjusted to present day?
The cost estimates are drawn from government records, media reports and technical reports. They are expressed in amounts current at the time of the event, and are unadjusted. They should be generally regarded as minimum estimates of the costs of direct damages.
