Increased risk of basement flooding continues
WINNIPEG - JUNE 28, 2005 - River levels within the city are expected to remain high until the end of July, or even longer if there is continued wet weather. An increased risk of basement flooding always exists whenever heavy rain occurs with high river levels.
Although the Red River Floodway remains activated, the level of the Red River in Winnipeg is almost 8 feet above normal summer level. The Red River in Winnipeg is presently at 14.22 feet James Avenue Datum and is expected to rise to 14.8 feet James Avenue Datum by July 3.
To ensure maximum protection against basement flooding, the City recommends homeowners take the following protective measures:
- Install a backwater valve and sump pit drainage system.
- Check and maintain your backwater valve and sump pit drainage system regularly.
- Improve drainage around your house – build up the ground so that water drains away from your basement, and extend downspouts so that water flows away from your house and doesn’t collect next to basement walls or basement windows or window wells.
For more information on the steps to take to reduce the risk of basement flooding, call the Basement Flooding Protection Program information line at 311 or visit winnipeg.ca/waterandwaste
In case of a basement flooding emergency, call the Water and Waste Department’s Customer Service Centre:
- 311 during regular business hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
- 311 after regular business hours
Last update: 28.06.2005
* Top of Page
