All sandbag dikes may now be removed

MEDIA RELEASE:

WINNIPEG May 05, 2006 - Due to a decrease in water levels, property owners may now safely remove sandbag dikes. At 3:00 pm, the Red River in Downtown Winnipeg was at 15.6 feet James and is declining at about 1/3 of a foot per day. The current river level is 9.1 feet (2.8 metres) above normal summer water level. Additional information can be found on the City of Winnipeg Web site at Winnipeg.ca/EPP/EPIT.

Flood control activities:

Sandbag Dikes – All sandbag dikes may now be removed. The Water and Waste Departments in conjunction with Public Works developed a Notice that has been hand delivered to properties. Property owners are responsible for the removal and disposal of the sandbags. Removal is recommended in a timely manner due to riverbank stability concerns.

Sandbags on sanitary sewer manholes – These sandbags are being removed as of today with completion expected by Tuesday, May 9th.

Flood Pumping Stations – 20 flood pumping stations remain activated along with 3 temporary pumping locations (portable pumps) on the City’s combined sewer and land drainage sewers.

Flood Control Gates – There are currently approximately 100 flood control gates in operation to protect the City’s sewer system from river water.

The City wishes to remind citizens to take care and caution around rivers and waterways. With debris and fast currents, boaters continue to be advised to stay off rivers until levels drop significantly. People are also strongly advised not to walk close to any creek, stream or ditch due to fast-moving waters. In addition, especially when river levels are high, it is important for citizens to check sump pumps and backwater valves on an on-going basis.

Additional information can be found on the City of Winnipeg Web site at Winnipeg.ca/EPP/EPIT/.