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Rain Adding to Increased Basement Flooding Risk

March 15, 2016 2:28 PM | News


By Sarah Klein

Assiniboine River Melting

(CHRISD.CA FILE)

With rapidly-melting snow and a rain coming down on Tuesday, the city is warning homeowners of the increase risk of potential basement flooding.

The ground is still frozen and unable to absorb moisture, creating pools of overland flooding across Winnipeg.

The city says this leads to an increased risk of overloaded sewers backing up through house sewer lines and flowing into basements that aren’t protected.

“Homeowners should check their sump pumps and backwater valves regularly to make sure they are functioning properly,” said Susan Lambert, field service operations engineer with the city’s Water and Waste Department.

“All residents should 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.”

Sandbags for those residents who require them are available at the following Public Works yards between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

  • 1220 Pacific Avenue
  • 849 Ravelston Avenue West
  • 1539 Waverley Street