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 crest of the Fisher River is flowing through Peguis; with it reportedly being between the Peguis Dairy Bar and Sutherlands Bridge. The crest will be continuing to be flowing through within the next 24 hours (time may fluctuate) and will create an influx of high water for a short period of time. Flood crews continue to reinforce the tiger dams in preparation. Once the crest passes through, we should begin to see the water receding in our area. Water levels are measured at most 2-3 times a day by Manitoba Water Stewardship.
To date, 33 homes have been tiger dammed due to overland flooding and river overflow.
Fisher River Grocery continues to work with vendors to ensure delivery of goods and fuel; and mail delivery continues.
Security will remain on-going around the community.
Two RCMP officers are now placed in the community in case of emergencies; as well as the paramedics crews remain 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
A Boil Water Advisory has been called 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.
The section on highway 224 near Alison Murdock’s will remain closed at this time and we ask community members not to remove the barricades. Manitoba Highways may issue fines to individuals who carry out those actions.
Support from Indigenous Services Canada continue, and we remain in hourly contact with officials from Peguis First Nation, Manitoba Water Stewardship and Manitoba Highways.
Lastly, we ask for our community members patience and support during this difficult time. Lateral violence will not be tolerated as our emergency crews and frontline workers are working 24/7 to ensure the safety of our members. We all continue to put our best foot forward and work as diligently as possible.
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