City responds to basement flooding situation on Assiniboine Avenue

WINNIPEG - July 26, 2007 - City crews, including Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Services, Emergency Social Services and members of the Water and Waste department are on scene on Assiniboine Avenue (east of Ferry Road) in response to numerous reports of basement flooding into homes.

"It appears that approximately 40 homes in this general area have been affected by the basement flooding and the City is actively assessing the situation" said Barry MacBride, Director of Water and Waste. "This unfortunate incident is being dealt with as expeditiously as possible."

City staff are currently going door-to-door to assess the situation for each individual property. Residents are being encouraged to :

• identify any special needs they may have i.e. home care requirements or family health issues, and
• contact their insurance companies as quickly as possible to expedite the cleanup and restoration process.

The majority of residents have been able to remain in their homes.

The City is also working with Manitoba Hydro, the Office of the Fire Commissioner and the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority to provide a coordinated response to the residents of the area. Representatives of the City of Winnipeg Claims Branch will be visiting residents starting in the morning to assess damages. The City of Winnipeg Claims Branch may also be reached by calling 311.

Earlier today city crews while working on a pumping station in the area, conducted normal procedures surrounding a combined sewer system and closed a positive gate to prevent sewer overflow into the Assiniboine River.

Tonight's weather event occurred in this area prior to the gate being reopened resulting in basement flooding in approximately 40 homes. According to Water and Waste officials, the gate should have been opened prior to the rainstorm. The reason for this is currently under investigation.