Nova Scotia gives $500,000 in immediate flood aid to storm-ravaged Cape Breton

HALIFAX – Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil says the province is providing $500,000 in immediate emergency aid for people in Cape Breton affected by damage caused by last weekend’s massive rainfall.

An overflowing creek floods a residential area of Sydney, N.S., Tuesday, Oct.11, 2016. Thousands were still without power in Nova Scotia and some communities in Newfoundland and Labrador were under a state of emergency Tuesday after torrential rain and strong winds blasted the region. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Vaughan Merchant

McNeil says the money has been given to the United Way of Cape Breton, which will be responsible for distributing the funds to those in need.

He says the money will be used for basic requirements such as food, clothing and lodging.

Related: Cleanup, damage assessment begins in Atlantic Canada after torrential rains

McNeil says the government knows a larger financial commitment will be required and it is currently assessing how much more will be needed.

He says the province is also now asking for help under the federal national disaster relief program.

Related: Heavy rains and strong winds wreaking havoc in the Maritimes

McNeil says while there is no final figure, it’s already known that damage to provincial infrastructure alone will exceed the $3 million figure needed to meet the federal requirement for help.