This year has seen heavier than usual snowfall throughout much of Saskatchewan. This has therefore led to environmental studies showing spring run-off possibly leading to flooding in a number of areas across province.
Government Relations Minister Jim Reiter has addressed concerns that were raised by the NDP regarding the Sask Party's apparent failure in allocating a specific amount of money within the budget for this possible natural disaster.
"We've set aside $182 million out of the Growth and Security Fund that won't be used for any other purpose, until we see, you know, potential impact of possible flooding this spring," Reiter explained.
"Their [the NDP's] thing about the budget is, they're complaining because there's not a line item expense listed, while the Finance Minister in the budget speech specifically mentioned this $182 million that is set aside for flooding if need be; and I think the people of this province are more concerned about if the government is going to be able to respond with assistance more than on what page of the financial statement it is."
Reiter thus confirmed the government has money designated for flood prevention and relief. They are ready to act in the case that flooding does occur, though there are factors which will influence the spring runoff such as how quickly the snow thaws.
"Our officials have been around the province helping municipalities prepare when asked and the usual sort of preparation work that you'd expect," Reiter stated. "Our officials are preparing equipment in case municipalities call for additional help, the sorts of things you'd expect like sandbags and pumps, barriers and generators, and those sorts of things."
This year there is a high likely hood that areas near Saskatoon and Regina will flood, while the Carlyle area, as depicted by the Water Security Agency's March 5th map, will be near normal flow conditions.
When predicting anything there is never a 100 percent certainty and with the snowpack in the Moose Mountain area a chance of flooding still exists, though, it is not expected to be extreme. For example, if the weather becomes warm very quickly it may create conditions with a greater chance of possible floods.
Precautions can still be followed to help ensure flooding does not become a problem. This includes ensuring snow is removed from your home or businesses foundation and placed in an area where it will drain accordingly.
Clearing drainage channels within snow packs can allow for effective runoff away from your home.
Another suggested action is to keep downspouts extended so water runs off of one's roof away from the foundation of the building.
Many in the area have sump pumps and it is important to confirm these are in working order.
Keeping an eye out for dampness and water in a crawl space or basement is important as well, because often these are the first signs of possible increased water levels.
