Rising river levels cause for concern
WINNIPEG - June 30, 2005 - With the rapidly rising levels of the Red River, the City of Winnipeg is concerned about additional flooding and is issuing an urgent notice to 34 property owners outside the primary dike to begin sandbagging.
The City already has some sandbags on hand, and the Public Works Department will be starting up two sandbag machines this afternoon.
“The City is taking this very seriously and is contacting those 34 property owners directly,” Water and Waste director Barry MacBride said, adding the City will be delivering sandbags as soon as possible on a priority basis.
A warning of possible flooding is also being given to homeowners who live outside the primary dike and those living near retention ponds, so they can monitor their properties over the next few days.
“We’ve got every pump we own going full-blast,” MacBride said, adding City crews are doing site inspections of all retention ponds.
As a precaution, homeowners are being advised to move items from their basement floors. For those living along the river, they are being asked to move or secure any structures or equipment near the water’s edge, such as docks, sheds, gazebos, irrigation pumps and recreational equipment.
Rising river levels, currently at 19.2 feet above James Street datum, below spring levels of 19.5 feet, will affect every property owner differently.
The Water and Waste Department has extended the hours of its customer service center to 8 p.m. Members of the public can call 311 with their inquiries or for after-hours emergency services only, they can call 311.
All Winnipeggers are also being advised to be aware of their safety and keep away from all rivers, creeks, streams, ditches and culverts because of fast-moving water.
Last update:
30.06.2005
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