Peguis, Fisher River declare state of emergency amid flooding risk

Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation have both declared states of emergency amid flooding risks.

Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation declared a state of emergency on Saturday due to flooding risk.

In a social media video posted Saturday afternoon, Chief Stan Bird said the flood risk is now “a certainty,” based on information as of Saturday morning.

“It is expected to exceed the banks of Fisher River in the coming days. Evacuations of our residents will be required,” he said.

“The information provided this morning is that a flood similar to 2022 could be expected.”

The flooding in 2022 forced about 2,000 residents out and damaged hundreds of homes.

Bird said the severity will depend on whether the temperature rises into the high teens, adding that recent snowfall and upcoming precipitation must also be considered.

Fisher River Cree Nation’s declaration

Saturday evening, Fisher River Cree Nation also declared a state of emergency following the passing of a band council resolution.

The resolution said residents’ health and safety are at risk, since the flooding condition can lead to road closures and hydro outages.

The state of emergency declaration does not trigger school closures automatically, the First Nation previously said.

In a statement, Lisa Naylor, Manitoba minister of emergency management, said her heart is with the people of the two communities.

“We are working closely with leadership in all affected communities, alongside the federal government and the Canadian Red Cross, to support evacuation planning and ensure people can get to safety as quickly and smoothly as possible,” Naylor said on Sunday.

“Flood mitigation is an ongoing effort and we will continue to send critical resources into the communities.”

‘An evacuation plan has been developed’

Bird urged homeowners to allow the crews to complete the protective work in Peguis First Nation, as there is a “strong likelihood” that crews will not return.

The First Nation previously estimated that about 225 homes are in danger.

Bird asked the community not to panic and overwhelm the flood centre with calls.

“An evacuation plan has been developed and we are in the final stages of implementing the plan,” he said on Saturday. The plan will be shared with the community once it is finalized.

Emergency numbers will be provided and a point of contact will be designated at various evacuee locations, Bird said.

“Everything we could possibly think of is to ensure we avoid the chaos and pandemonium, and that our evacuation is as coordinated and orderly as possible.”

The First Nation continues to monitor the situation and asked community to watch for future updates on Facebook, website and over the radio.

Bird thanked the efforts put in by volunteers and the community.

“People worked through cold and freezing temperatures; conditions have been far from favourable … it has been a team effort, right from the cooks to the various crews that showed from places like the United States, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario.

“It’s been a massive effort thus far, but the hard work must continue and I want to encourage everyone – continue putting your best foot forward.”

Both the Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation have been preparing for the flood risk since last week by sandbagging and installing tiger dams.

The provincial and federal governments previously said a long-term prevention solution is on the way.

The province said runoff is expected to begin this upcoming week across much of central Manitoba.

With files from The Canadian Press and CTV News’ Jon Hendricks, Kayla Rosen and Jeff Keele