FORT FRANCES – Flooding as a result of the rain over the weekend has States of Emergency declared in Rainy River, Fort Frances and Couchiching First Nation.
There are no new weather warnings out for the area.
In the Kenora District the forecast from Environment Canada is calling for rain ending this morning.
The Town of Fort Frances is continuing to request that all water & sewer customers within the communities of Fort Frances & Couchiching First Nation please continue to ensure your sump pumps for your weeping tile system are not connected to the Sanitary Sewer System.
Also, officials in Fort Frances are asking that residents in both communities still continue to manage their water consumption.
On Sunday the community stated in a media release, “As a result of the significant rainfall that we are still actively seeing and is forecasted for our area for the rest of today and into tomorrow, has caused the Sewage Treatment Plant to be placed back into by-pass mode. This occurred last night at 11:00PM and sections of the sanitary sewer collection system are operating at maximum capacity. All preventative measures have been re-activated and are helping to alleviate the current rainfall situation. Water levels in Rainy Lake and the Rainy River are expected to continue to rise over the next while”.
Cottages and camps are impacted as there have been a number of roads washed out. Caution is needed especially for people who might choose to cross a flooded roadway, it is very possible that some washouts could be under the water.
Residents who have properties along the water should continue to monitor the areas and advise the Town of any potential property damage. The Government Dock is still in distress and Fort Frances Fire/Rescue along with Operations & Facilities are working to ensure that
any sections or debris from the dock that become detached are removed from the water and safely secured on shore.
The public is reminded to stay away from areas where Town Personnel/Emergency Services are working. This will help to ensure the safety and security of everyone.Please continue to follow 93.1 The Border for more updates on this emergency. Also, residents can continue to call the Emergency Information Line at 274-1818 with any questions or concerns in regards to this emergency.
