A hydrologist assisting Peguis First Nation anticipates completing flood protection measures around the community in Manitoba’s Interlake by Wednesday. Ian Halket, who has been collaborating with the First Nation in readiness for a potentially severe spring runoff over the past ten days, expressed confidence in the community’s preparedness for the expected flooding in the upcoming days.
Halket mentioned that the protection work is nearing completion, with only a few final adjustments remaining. The province reported the provision of over half a million sandbags and 11,000 large sandbags to aid Peguis in anticipation of the runoff. Additionally, neighboring Fisher River Cree Nation received more than 36,000 sandbags and 1,000 larger sandbags.
Doug Thomas, the director of communications for Peguis First Nation, stated that 115 homes identified as high-risk have been safeguarded thus far, with crews focusing on finalizing the dike construction around approximately 10 homes. Thomas commended the team for their exceptional coordination, emphasizing that the community has never been as well-prepared.
Halket highlighted the protection of around 85 maintenance holes and a significant portion of the community’s infrastructure, noting that efforts were underway on Tuesday to complete a final dike encircling the public works yard. Expressing his satisfaction with the progress, he praised the tremendous effort exhibited since Sunday.
Peguis announced on Monday the commencement of evacuations for “Priority 1” residents, including individuals with disabilities, diabetes, pregnant women, or those requiring additional assistance. The First Nation disclosed that 32 individuals have been identified for preemptive evacuation, but only six have opted to evacuate voluntarily.