HALIFAX - The flood threat is abating in rain-soaked areas of southwestern Nova Scotia as water levels recede on most rivers and lakes and the forecast calls for clear skies.
Nova Scotia Power crews reported Thursday that pressure had eased on the Vaughn Lake dam after recording a drop of about 25 centimetres.
They planned to inspect it and gradually reduce the flow through the gates.
A local state of emergency was lifted in the community of Quinan where several people were forced to flee last weekend after a record 250 millimetres of rain fell on the area.
They, along with four families who live near the Carleton dam, were expected to start returning to their homes.
"Everyone is relieved that the situation in southwestern Nova Scotia is beginning to improve," said Ramona Jennex, minister of emergency management, in a release.
"Residents, first responders, local leaders, emergency managers and private partners have worked hard to keep their communities safe. They have shown tremendous community spirit over the last few days."
Department of Transportation workers planned to build a walkway to enable pedestrian traffic in and out of Quinan and shuttle bus services were being offered to take people to Yarmouth for supplies.
About 20 families from the Raynardton area remained out of their homes because of high water levels while parts of Barrington and Yarmouth remained under a local state of emergency.
Premier Darrell Dexter toured the area by helicopter Wednesday and indicated that the province will be seeking federal aid to repair road and bridge damage.
