July 05, 2002
HEAVY RAIN UPDATE #25 - FLOODWAY OPERATED TO REDUCE RISK OF BASEMENT FLOODING DAMAGE
The Winnipeg Floodway went into operation at midnight in response to the heavy rains that fell in the Winnipeg area yesterday evening. The operation is a preventative measure to protect thousands of Winnipeg homes that are at risk of significant damage from sewer backup.
The current river level is 13.5 feet (James Avenue). The target level is 12.0 feet by this evening.
In 1993, about $140 million in basement flooding damage occurred after heavy rain fell during a period of high water levels on the Red River.
The federal and provincial governments approved a heavy rain plan last week that was developed in conjunction with the Floodway Operation Committee.
Property owners who could see some increased water levels south of the floodway were previously notified of the potential for floodway operation. Winnipeg officials were also notified of the operation.
Full compensation will be available for people south of the floodway who incur damages as a result of the floodway operation.
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