Flood Watch: Saint John River (Fredericton & Gagetown)

Published on: April 21, 2026

Flood Watch: Saint John River (Fredericton & Gagetown)

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization (NBEMO) has issued an urgent update as water levels on the lower Saint John River rise rapidly following recent heavy rain and snowmelt. Both Fredericton and Gagetown are expected to hit or exceed flood stage today, Tuesday, April 21, 2026.

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Table of Contents

Current Forecast & Water Levels

Location	Flood Stage	Projected Peak (Today)	Outlook
Fredericton	6.5 m	6.6 m	Expected to recede slightly to 6.3 m by Wednesday.
Gagetown	4.0 m	4.3 – 4.5 m	High levels expected to persist throughout the week.

Local Impacts & Closures

Fredericton

The city has already closed several low-lying areas to ensure public safety. Submerged sections include:

Riverfront Trails: The South Riverfront (River Centre to Beaverbrook) and North Riverfront (Picaroons to Hillcourt Drive) are currently underwater.
Parkland: Morell Park and Salamanca trails are closed.
High-Risk Zones: Residents should monitor the Upper Queen Street and Carleton Park parking lots, as well as Bourque Lane, for potential pooling.

Gagetown

Because Gagetown sits further down the basin, water levels are expected to stay above the 4.0 m threshold for several days as the “crest” of the river moves through the system.

Safety Essential Checklist

Stay Back: Riverbanks are currently unstable. Keep a safe distance from the water’s edge to avoid fast-moving debris and unpredictable currents.
Secure Basements: Check that sump pumps are working and move any valuables or electronics to higher floors.
72-Hour Preparedness: Ensure your emergency kit is stocked. If your primary access road is flood-prone, have a plan in case of temporary isolation.
Monitor Closures: Do not drive through flooded streets or ignore “Road Closed” signs; water may be deeper than it appears.