Winnipeg, MB - The Provincial spring flood outlook issued indicates that based on spring thaw and weather conditions, river levels within the city could range between a median of 11.9 and a high of 15.4 feet James (James Avenue Datum).
The Winnipeg Public Service has been undergoing their annual spring flood preparations, including reviewing flood protection measures required for the projected high level. Although there are no properties that require sandbags to protect against river flooding under the current predicted upper level of 15.4 feet James, the City has an existing stockpile of filled sandbags available if required. The City will continue to work closely with the Province in monitoring the situation and adapt the protection measures accordingly.
High river levels increase the risk of basement flooding across the city. When river levels are high, the normal capacity of the sewer system is reduced. With heavy rains, there is an increased risk of overloaded sewers backing up through house sewer lines and flowing into basements that aren’t protected.
Although basement flooding is a risk at any time of the year, the risk increases with high river levels because the sewer system must then rely heavily on pumping stations rather than gravity to carry the rainfall runoff.
Homeowners are reminded to take steps to protect their homes and property.
- Residents who live along the river should move or secure any structures or equipment near the water’s edge, such as docks, sheds, gazebos, irrigation pumps, and recreational equipment. The rising river level will affect each property owner differently.
- To ensure maximum protection against basement flooding, arrange for a licensed plumber to install a sewer line backup valve and a sump pit with pump in the basement.
- Inspect backup valves and sump pump drainage systems to make sure they are functioning properly.
- Ensure drainage is directed away from the home by extending downspouts away from the basement walls and ensuring the earth is built up around the house.
Homeowners are reminded that applications are being accepted for the 2014 Basement Flood Protection Subsidy Program. The program was launched by the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg in 2011 to help homeowners protect their basements from flooding caused by overloaded sewers during severe weather (e.g., heavy rain, high river levels).
Property owners are reminded it is against the law to drain sump pump water into the basement floor drain or any other part of the house plumbing system, as it can overtax the sewer system placing their basement and those of their neighbours at risk of flooding and damage.
More information is available on the following web pages:
Protect Your Home from Basement Flooding
winnipeg.ca/waterandwaste/drainageFlooding/basementFlooding.stm
Basement Flood Protection Subsidy Program
winnipeg.ca/waterandwaste/drainageFlooding/basementFloodingProtectionSubsidyProgram.stm
Winnipeg River Levels
winnipeg.ca/publicworks/pwddata/riverlevels/
James Avenue Datum
winnipeg.ca/history/flood/james_ave_datum.stm
City of Winnipeg Emergency Preparedness Program
winnipeg.ca/emergweb/