Winnipeg, MB – City crews will continue to plow collector streets and bus routes this morning, and spread salt on main routes as needed to improve traction on roadways throughout the day.
There are no winter parking bans currently in effect.
Residents are urged to adjust their driving behaviour by making allowances for winter driving conditions, and are advised to:
- Factor in additional travel time to get to destinations
- Slow down to a safe travel speed for winter conditions
- Allow appropriate stopping distances
- Stay Back, Stay Safe from heavy equipment that is working
Snow clearing and salting operations are undertaken in accordance with the Council-approved Snow Clearing and Ice Control Policy.
Transit Impacts
Due to inclement weather conditions, Winnipeg Transit is currently experiencing delays. Residents are reminded to check their schedules before heading out, and to allow additional time to get to their destinations.
Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Updates
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is currently experiencing longer response times. Response times are being monitored and additional resources will be placed on duty if necessary.
Since 7 p.m. on October 10, 2019, the WFPS has responded to over 220 service calls for problems related to hydro lines, including two structure fires. Over the last 24 hour period, WFPS has experienced roughly double its normal call volume, receiving 687 calls for assistance.
Residents are reminded to stay away from damaged or downed power lines, and to contact 911 immediately.
Residents can assist in keeping their families safe by reviewing winter safety tips and emergency preparedness tips at City of Winnipeg - EmergWeb.
River Flooding Update
Since the Province of Manitoba activated the Red River Floodway on October 9, 2019, river levels at the James Avenue gauge have begun to recede. As of 6:58 a.m. this morning, the river level at the James Avenue gauge was 11.96 feet.
At this time, there are no properties at risk of river flooding.
The City will continue to monitor weather conditions and river levels to determine required flood protection measures.
The City continuously reviews its flood preparation measures and activities, including monitoring river levels and weather conditions, preparing pumping stations, deploying temporary pumps to protect the sewer system, and closing outfall gates, as needed.
We will continue to monitor weather conditions and river levels to determine required flood protection measures.
Waterway Safety
Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution near waterways due to fast moving current. Parents and teachers are urged to speak to children and students about the dangers of waterways.
Basement Flooding
Basement flooding is a risk at any time of the year; however, the risk increases when river levels rise because the sewer system must rely heavily on pumping stations rather than gravity to carry the water runoff due to higher river levels.
Homeowners are reminded to take the following steps to protect their homes and property:
- 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.
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.
As of 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 10, the City received a single report of clean water sewer back-up, and a single report of raw sewage backup.