State of Local Emergency lifted for Richmond County  

*Sharing on behalf of Inverness, Victoria and Richmond Counties, and the Town of Port Hawkesbury

The State of Local Emergency has been lifted for Richmond County today, Sept. 9.

A State of Local Emergency (SOLE) was called on Sept. 6 for Inverness, Victoria and Richmond Counties following widespread flooding that had resulted in road closures, evacuations, and disruptions to transportation networks.

The SOLE for Inverness and Victoria Counties was lifted Sept. 8.  Further assessment of roads and infrastructure was required for Richmond County, however today, Sept. 9, it was determined that it was safe to lift the SOLE.

PLEASE NOTE:

While travel is not prohibited, there will be some road closures throughout each impacted municipality. Road signage will be posted and motorists are asked to exercise caution in those affected areas.

Reminders for Residents:

• Residents from Inverness, Victoria and Richmond Counties and the Town of Port Hawkesbury are encouraged to continue calling the municipal support line.

• • Phone number: 902-625-7888
  • Hours of operation: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  • What callers can expect: Calls will be answered by a municipal representative. If residents are unable to reach someone when they call, they may leave a voicemail, and a representative will return their call. The nature of the concern will determine the appropriate response and follow-up.
  • The support line is intended for non-emergency issues and concerns. Any situation requiring immediate emergency assistance should be reported by calling 911.
• Residents with general insurance questions are encouraged to call the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s Consumer Information Centre toll-free at 1-844-227-5422. Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada’s private home, auto and business insurers. To learn more about supports available, visit Cape Breton Flooding: Insurance Bureau of Canada provides insurance guidance .

The Western Cape Breton Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) thanks residents for their patience and cooperation during what has been a difficult time.

In September 2026, Inverness, Victoria and Richmond Counties and the Town of Port Hawkesbury partnered to establish the Western Cape Breton Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO).

A REMO brings neighbouring municipalities together to coordinate emergency planning, preparedness, response and recovery. It provides a structure for municipalities and emergency response agencies to work together when an incident extends beyond the capacity of a single community.