The following is the press release issued by the City of Estevan at 11 a.m. this morning:
The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority has advised that the combined water release from Boundary Dam and Rafferty Dam will rise to 720 cubic meters per second. There is the possibility of additional increases due to the expected rainfall in Estevan and surrounding areas.
Highway 47 South and Highway 18 West are closed until further notice. The Highway 47 South detour is from Highway 39 East to grid 703 and appropriate signage is in place. Highway 47 North is still allowing travel with one vehicle at a time and Highway 39 East remains open at this time. Estevan Police Service and Fire Rescue Service require residents to stay away from affected areas including Highway 47 South, Highway 18 West, and Rafferty Dam Road. Anyone caught disobeying barricades or road closures will be charged. For further information on road closures contact the Highway Hotline before travelling.
Additionally, residents should be aware that the flood waters are extremely dangerous. Floating debris and other water hazards above and beneath the surface are dangerous for all watercraft. All power lines are energized and should be considered dangerous. At the moment, power lines are very close to the water surface so watercraft could come into contact with energized lines. Chances of rescue are minimal.
The City of Estevan continues to pump water out of Willow Park Greens Trailer Park. SaskPower has reinstated the power to the trailer park, however it will remain evacuated. The Estevan Police Service has advised that there have not been any reports of looting for vandalism at this point at the trailer park. The City of Estevan Evacuation Shelter continues to accept Roche Percee evacuee registrations at the Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre. Please use the south entrance. For information about evacuees contact 634-1876 .
Currently the evacuation centre has registered 203 families from Estevan and 31 families from Roche Percee with only 40 people staying at the congregate shelter at the Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre. The facility is receiving donations of goods which is greatly appreciated. Please call 1-800-418-1111 for the Saskatchewan Flood Donation Line if you are interested in donating to the cause.
The Water Treatment Plant is fully operational and there has NOT been a Boil Water Advisory. The City Landfill is open and accessible. The Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre will remain closed to the public until further notice.
