Local RMs prepare for possible flooding

To help mitigate the threat, crews have cut a trench across multiple roads, but with more snow in the forecast, Boutin acknowledged the issue is only going to be prolonged.

On Thursday, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency held a news conference and confirmed states of emergency declared by the RM of Meadow Lake. Foam Lake, Pierceland, and the RM of St. Louis.

Boutin said the RM has received sandbags from the province, which are being used around the water station in the hamlet of Domremy. Boutin also said crews are out identifying and flagging dangerous areas and closing roads that are unsafe to pass.

“I know it’s inconvenient, but you can’t cross over a road that has water flowing over it because you don’t know if there is a washout under it,” he said, adding the safety of everyone involved and protection of infrastructure is the RM’s highest priority.

Boutin also stated all affected roads will remain closed until the flow subsides and RM personnel have had a chance to assess each area and make necessary repairs.

A map showing the roads affected by flooding. (Image Credit: Facebook/ RM of St Louis)

In both 2013 and 2020, the RM of Buckland experienced issues with flooding and on Tuesday, issued a warning to rate payers about use of McLeod Road (1/2 Mile North of Buckland Road, near the curve) due to water levels on the roadway. Reeve Linda Clavelle told paNOW crews are monitoring and marking roads as necessary.

“Buckland Road has been reopened, but caution is advised as conditions are constantly changing. Some roads have water across them, and may be closed in the future if the water does not clear. Culverts are functioning as well as they can, but some are restricted by snow,” she said.

Rochelle Neff, Chief Administrative Officer for the Rural Municipality of Prince Albert, also confirmed they’ve been proactively maintaining waterways and culverts to reduce the risk of flooding.

“While a few areas across the municipality remain restricted or compromised, crews have been working diligently, including evenings and weekends to address concerns and prevent any significant infrastructure failures,” she said.

“With the recent snowfall adding additional moisture, the RM will continue to closely monitor runoff conditions. At this time, all municipal infrastructure remains stable. If conditions remain favorable following the spring storm, the RM is prepared to support neighbouring municipalities as needed.”

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell

by Nigel Maxwell

Local RMs prepare for possible flooding

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