Flood Update #8
The Town of Swan River continues to make steady progress as we move further into the recovery phase following the recent flooding. We recognize there is still a great deal of work ahead, but the resilience and support shown throughout our community has been truly remarkable.
Recovery Continues
River levels continue to decline, allowing more residents to safely begin the cleanup and restoration of their homes and properties.
Although conditions continue to improve, residents are reminded that flood-impacted areas may still contain hazards. Please continue to use caution around standing water, unstable ground, damaged trees, and debris.
Public Works crews remain on duty 24 hours a day protecting critical infrastructure while also supporting recovery efforts throughout the community. Crews continue to monitor lift stations, pump areas of concern, assess road conditions, and respond to service requests as residents return home.
Pump Distribution
Portable pumps remain available for residents who need assistance removing water from their homes.
Pumps are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the north side of the Centennial Arena.
Residents borrowing a pump must:
- Present photo identification showing their address.
- Sign a waiver acknowledging the risks associated with pumping flooded basements.
- Provide their own fuel.
- Return the pump within 48 hours so it can be cleaned, inspected, and made available to another resident.
Please remember to pump flooded basements slowly. Pumping water too quickly while flood water remains around the foundation can result in serious structural damage.
Support Centre
The Support Centre remains available to assist anyone impacted by the flooding, regardless of where they reside.
Beginning Monday, the Support Centre will operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Staff continue to assist residents with:
- Recovery information and resources
- Mental health supports
- Cleaning supplies and essential items
- General recovery questions
Emergency Social Services (ESS) has taken over full administration of accommodations at this time.
Pre-packaged meals and snacks will remain available throughout the day, and a hot supper will be served each evening in partnership/organization with the Elbert Chartrand Friendship Centre.
Our goal is to support those who are spending long days cleaning and restoring their homes by providing a place to take a break, enjoy a hot meal, and access available supports.
Emergency Social Services (ESS)
Provincial Emergency Social Services representatives remain available at the Support Centre Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m..
Residents requiring continued hotel accommodations, emergency financial assistance, or other eligible ESS supports must register directly with ESS staff.
Samaritan's Purse Disaster Relief
Samaritan's Purse continues accepting registrations from residents requiring assistance with flood cleanup.
They are coordinating recovery efforts in partnership with their partner organization to ensure assistance is provided as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Residents requiring cleanup assistance can register by calling 1-833-738-7743.
Additional recovery organizations are also assessing the region and more supports are expected to become available in the coming days.
Donation Centre
The Donation Centre has now transitioned its focus to cleaning supplies but still has essential items available.
Thanks to incredible support from local businesses and community partners, cleaning kits are now being assembled for residents affected by the flooding.
To date, numerous cleaning packages have already been distributed, and additional supplies continue to arrive.
We will continue to announce as additional recovery supplies become available.
Flood Information Hub
The Town has expanded and reorganized the Flood Information Hub on our website to make it easier for residents to find information.
The Flood Hub now includes:
- Recovery resources
- Emergency Social Services information
- Pump information
- Donation Centre updates
- Safety information
- Public updates
Visit www.swanrivermanitoba.ca and click "Read More" on either the flood pop-up or the Flood Hub graphic on the homepage.
Stay Prepared
Although conditions continue to improve, residents are encouraged to remain prepared for the possibility of localized power outages should they occur. This is simply a precaution as crews continue working throughout the community and region. Having generators, flashlights, charged mobile devices and other essential items readily available is always a good idea during recovery efforts.
Help Us Reach Everyone
Administration continues to look for additional ways to reach residents who may not be visiting the Support Centre or who are not connected to the internet or social media.
If you know someone who may not be receiving these updates, please help by checking in on them and sharing important information regarding available supports and recovery resources.
Thank You
Today's progress is another important step forward for our community. While there is still considerable work ahead, Swan River continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, generosity, and compassion.
Thank you to our residents, volunteers, emergency responders, Town staff, businesses, community organizations, and provincial partners for your continued support. Together, we will continue working toward recovery.