13 Sask. communities in states of emergency after storms drop 275 mm of rain over 10 days

Thirteen communities across Saskatchewan are now under states of emergency following more than 10 days of severe thunderstorms that have inundated eastern parts of the province. The rainfall has ranged from 100 to 275 mm in affected areas.

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In addition to the equipment that’s being sent out, we do have staff that’s on the ground assisting communities with the process of working their way through an emergency.

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is working with the Water Security Agency (WSA) to provide crucial support, resources, and accommodations. Communities like Togo, Canora, and Cote First Nation are receiving assistance. Nine people have been evacuated from Cote First Nation due to concerns about emergency access to their homes.

"In addition to the equipment that’s being sent out, we do have staff that’s on the ground assisting communities with the process of working their way through an emergency," said Tyler Harrison, manager of emergency service operations at the SPSA. His team is also offering expertise to help manage the escalating situation.

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These localized flood events are very difficult to predict and manage. And they’re driven by intense storm systems which drop a lot of water in a short period.

Overland flooding has forced the closure of several stretches of Saskatchewan highways. "Water is either covering segments of driving lanes or portions of provincial highways are simply closed," said Dan Palmer, senior communications consultant with the Highway Hotline. Ministry of Highways crews are implementing temporary fixes with gravel while assessing the need for permanent repairs to address structural issues caused by the water damage.

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Water is either covering segments of driving lanes or portions of provincial highways are simply closed.