Newfoundland floods call for state of emergency

Heavy rains recently inundating western Newfoundland and a small Labrador community instigated a state of emergency in Stephenville and resulted in flooding that eroded roads.More than 140 mm of rain felll causing a flood that precipitated the overflow of a pair of river, which is ultimately what prompted residents to leave and a state of emergency to be called.Approximately 200 of the town’s 8,000 residents evacuated their homes. Floodwaters inundated homes reaching up to main floor window levels but this extreme flooding was restricted to low-lying areas.Damage extended into Noels Pond, Black Duck Siding and Kippens, where police are advising drivers to stay off the roads as some roads like the Trans Canada Highway, have been washed out. Flood waters are expected to persist until the rain subsides.