The spring breakup could cause minor to moderate flooding. While the Emergency Response Planning Team monitors water levels, it is important for you to keep enjoying your daily routine and this week’s community activities.
Response actions
- Experts are monitoring water melt levels. The water is expected to reach its highest point sometime this week. It could be as high or a bit higher than last year.
- Crews are working to repair and maintain access to the sewage lagoon and the dump. A culvert is still frozen so they’re installing a second one to help water flow. The sewage lagoon is working normally.
- The Ski Chalet Road has about 12 inches of water caused by mountain runoff. There is flooding at one property. The road is still passable in trucks and ATVs.
- Flood monitors are monitoring water levels 24/7. This includes the North Road where there is minor flooding that could cause some homes to be evacuated and to lose power.
How you can prepare for flooding
- We need to create less sewage water to limit sewage lagoon issues. Use less water. Use taps and flush toilets less, take shorter and fewer showers, and only do laundry when necessary.
- A resident’s guide to preparing for the flood is available at the community hall, admin building, and the Co-op.
- Keep boats out of the river. Ice from the Crow, Bell and Upper Porcupine rivers still needs to flow down the river.
- Stay well away from moving water and ice and keep children safely away.
- Check the Vuntut Gwitchin Government Facebook page for updates.
- Prepare an emergency kit with enough supplies for 72 hours.
Potential evacuation outreach methods
Old Crow evacuation zones 1, 2 and 3 are under an evacuation alert. Be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. The Emergency Response Planning Team will tell you if you need to leave by going door to door, playing sirens, and posting on the Vuntut Gwitchin Government Facebook page.
Contact
For flood information, please call Mike Fancie, public information officer, at 867-332-1928.