Fisher River Flood Watch Update #8 – May 8, 2022

Fisher River Cree Nation Chief & Council issued a state of emergency on April 29, 2022, regarding the high risk of flooding of the Fisher River due to the recent weather events.

CURRENT SITUATION:

The recent water level or peak of the Fisher River in the communities of the Peguis, Dallas and Fisher River Cree Nation were the record peak going back to the early 1960’s and is slowly receding. Water levels have receded approximately 100 to 150 mm (4 to 6 inches) over the past couple of days from the peak within the communities.

Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure (MTI) and leadership are currently monitoring multiple weather systems over the next 7 days which are expected to bring more precipitation to our area. Current forecasts estimate that the Interlake region could receive between 25 to 40 mm of rain over the next few days (Monday/Tuesday) with some localized areas receiving higher amounts of precipitation.  The second system is forecasted to bring 15 to 20 mm of rain but with less certainty at this time as it is later in the week. The additional precipitation that is forecasted is expected to affect the water level on the Fisher River at all locations in FRCN, Peguis and Dallas. This means that the river could rise quickly back to its previous peak or higher.  Due to the uncertainty of the extent of the system, MTI is recommending that communities prepare for the previous peak level plus 0.3 m (1 ft). Fisher River Emergency Crews and the Chief & Council continue to monitor and keep in contact with Indigenous Services Canada regarding this situation.

Charles Sinclair & Fisher River High School will be resuming classes on Monday May 9; however, there will be no bus service until further notice. Parents can use their discretion in transporting students to and from school each day.

Due to the rain we got last night – Fish Road is only recommended for trucks at this time. Crews were back out today so please take caution if travelling that way today.

The road by Doug Murdock’s remains closed to traffic as conditions are deteriorating and large potholes are developing. The section of Highway 224 by Alison Murdock’s will remain closed to traffic until further notice.

Peguis First Nation crews continue to work on the “Mandi Mart” road; the conditions are also recommended for SUV’s and trucks. They continue to battle the water, but they will work on it as needed to make it passable.

Highway 224 by the Peguis Fire Hall to the Peguis Multiplex closed at 4:00pm to 8:00am for emergency repairs. Road access is available on East Reservation Road, from Fern Sinclair’s to Midway is passable and recommended for travel, when Highway is closed. Only emergency vehicles will be allowed to pass through Peguis Track for emergency purposes during construction.

Due to flood waters, phone lines maybe affected. Specifically, the Emergency Ambulance/Fire Number of 204.645.2000. If you are cut off when you are calling in an Emergency, please call back right away.

Security will remain on-going and the paramedics continue to be stationed in the community.

Any members who are experiencing flooding of basements are to contact the Fisher River Flood Command Centre or the Housing On-Call number for further instructions – 431.256.0554

Members who feel there at risk of flooding are to contact the Fisher River Fire Department – 431.256.0077

The Boil Water Advisory remains in effect for homes where wells and water tanks are in flooded areas as a precaution. Individuals are still able to wash dishes, do laundry, shower and washing of hands. Digesting without boiling the water is not recommended.

Support from Indigenous Services Canada continue, and we remain in hourly contact with officials from Peguis First Nation, Manitoba Water Stewardship and Manitoba Highways.

We will continue to update the community as needed.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS:

Fisher River Flood Command Centre – 431.256.0041 or 431.256.1024

Fisher River Fire Department (Tiger Damns and flooding situations) – 431.256.0077

Housing Department On-Call (Sump pump issues, basement flooding, water, and other housing issues) – 431.256.0554

Health Services On-Call – 431.256.0395

Fisher River Safety Officer – 204.308.0553

Ambulance – 204.645.2000

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT CONTACT NUMBERS:

Rainbow House Wellness Centre After Hours – 431.256.0359

Rob Desrochers – 204.250.6817

Heather Kerr-Vermeulen – 204.890.9849