Winnipeg, MB - In a news release today, the Province advised that the Red River crest will arrive in Winnipeg March 20 to 22, resulting in a James Avenue crest between 4.9 m to 5.2 m (16 and 17 feet), and that potential ice jams could make this peak higher. As of 4:30 pm today, the river level at James Avenue was 4.8 m (15.6 feet).
At this time, five properties are potentially at risk and the City is working with the homeowners to ensure sandbags are in place if necessary. City staff have been working on annual spring flood preparations for several weeks, including reviewing flood protection measures. City staff continue to monitor the rising river and are implementing flood control activities in response, such as operating flood pumping stations and setting up temporary pumps. The City will continue to work closely with the Province in monitoring the situation and adapt protection measures accordingly.
Springtime thaws 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.
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.
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