Swan River MLA Urges Premier to Take Action in Flood Zone
SWAN RIVER — Swan River MLA Rick Wowchuk called on the premier today to take swift action to help the flood-ravaged residents of the Minitonas–Bowsman and Swan Valley areas. Some parts of the region were hit with up to 150 mm of rain Sunday night, causing widespread damage to highways, bridges, farmland, homes, and businesses.
”My constituents are looking for reassurances from their provincial government,” said Wowchuk. “We have communities that are entirely cut off from the outside world. We have heavily damaged roads and bridges that urgently need re-building. What is the province doing to expedite the repairs that are so desperately needed?”
Since the widespread flash flooding struck Sunday night, residents have not been able to access their homes, businesses, and schools because of road washouts and high water. Communications have been hampered by the loss of cellphone service in the area, and gas and electricity has been cut off to some communities.
“I’ve sent a letter to Premier Wab Kinew asking for direct intervention from him and his Transportation and Infrastructure Minister,” said Wowchuk. “Both have been missing in action since this emergency began. The premier was eager to promise funding and pose for photo ops of him tossing sandbags earlier this spring for a potential flood. Where is he when roads and bridges are washed out? Swan Valley is in trouble.”
Meteorologists have called the storm that struck the Swan Valley a once-in-200-year event. Over 3,000 Manitoba Hydro customers are without power. The Municipality of Minitonas-Bowsman declared a state of emergency Monday morning, with the Municipality of Swan Valley and Town of Swan River following suit earlier today.
A ruptured gas line in Minitonas forced the evacuation of nearby businesses and residents. The flash flooding will devastate the local agriculture industry and force some farmers to reseed their fields. As the water moves toward Swan Lake, high water levels are also putting livestock in extreme danger.
“Residents of Swan Valley need to know the provincial government has their backs during this time of need,” said Wowchuk. “I’m calling on the premier to take immediate action to provide the resources needed to assess the situation and immediately begin the rebuilding effort across the region.”
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