Flooding in North Battleford

As Leader of the Saskatchewan Liberal Party and as a resident of North Battleford, I offer my most sincere condolences to those families who have suffered in the aftermath of the violent storm that ravaged our community last week. 

Major flooding occurred in the City of North Battleford on July 22nd at 2:00pm after a period of torrential rain and hail. A Local State of Emergency was declared at 3:00 by Mayor Ian Hamilton- a declaration that still remains in effect until further notice.

To date 250 homes have been damaged and after the weekend 98 families had made applications for assistance to Emergency Social Services. Thirteen of these families were displaced from their homes and were provided with lodging in local hotels. Thankfully, no injuries or fatalities have been reported. The cleanup of the flooding is still ongoing.

I also extend my most sincere gratitude for the quick action of the City of North Battleford and other agencies for establishing the Recovery and Relief Centre in the Don Ross Centre. This provided an important contact point for those affected and I have heard first hand how helpful the Red Cross and other agencies were at the Centre.

I also recognize the individual efforts of neighbours and friends who helped others who were trapped or in danger. A personal friend of mine was trapped in her car, and as the flooding enveloped her car her escape was only possible because of the heroic assistance of two neighbours. I’m sure there are dozens of stories such as this from that afternoon, and hearing that makes me proud to be a part of this community.

Lastly, I thank Yogi Huyghebaert, Minister of Corrections, Public Safety and Policing for his attendance in our community on Friday, and for approving North Battleford for help under the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program. I also thank Leader of the Opposition Dwain Lingenfelter for his support and attendance on the weekend. I am pleased that we all stand united in our desire for a quick and healthy recovery from this flood.