Particle.news
Download on the App Store
5 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Badger Evacuation Persists as Exploits River Slowly Recedes

Officials cite a slow drop in levels, with snowfall in the forecast keeping risk high.

The Exploits River in central Newfoundland is shown in this handout photo, creeping toward Melissa Mercer's backyard in Badger, N.L., on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - Melissa Mercer (Mandatory Credit)
Water levels of the Exploits River began to rise several days ago and have started encroaching on people’s properties in recent days.
The Town of Badger is again having to evacuate after water from the rise of the Exploits River brought flooding to parts of the community.

Overview

  • The town remains under a state of emergency with a partial evacuation still in place for low-lying areas.
  • About 110 homes are off-limits and roughly 170 residents have been urged to register with the Red Cross for shelter.
  • Ice jams on the Exploits River blocked flow and sent water over the banks into neighbourhoods.
  • Mayor Dennis Butt says levels are edging down near a one‑in‑20‑year flood mark as drones and round‑the‑clock checks assess ice conditions.
  • RCMP, volunteer firefighters and search-and-rescue maintain 24/7 patrols, with the Red Cross coordinating lodging and the Salvation Army providing meals as forecast snow could shift river ice.