The City of Winnipeg says crews continue to clear and remove downed trees and fallen branches after the storm tore through Winnipeg last weekend.

The City continues to deal with the after-effects of a Colorado Low that swept over the southern part of Manitoba on the long weekend.

Now aided by contractors and crews from other Canadian municipalities like the City of Regina crew who arrived yesterday, the work continues clearing debris and repairing power lines.

Crews from the City of Saskatoon are anticipated to arrive today.

The City of Winnipeg says, "Residents are reminded to be mindful of crews working on roadways. If a tree is blocking a roadway, or if crews are on a roadway working, please refrain from driving through the site and do not drive around them on medians or boulevards."

"Residents are also reminded to not park adjacent to failed trees and large limbs that are still attached to the tree so that crews can access them."

Trees on private property are expected to be the responsibility of the property owner, but the City says trees or branches that have fallen on public property can be brought to the Brady Road Resource Management Facility or to one of the City’s 4R Winnipeg Depots to dispose of them free of charge during operating hours.

Damaged trees are not the only effect of the storm as the City reports that river levels have begun to increase at the James Avenue gauge.

As of 12:28 p.m. on October 16, the City reports the river level to be at 15.57 feet.

While the City claims there are no properties at risk of being impacted by flooding this time, the City has 21,000 filled sandbags on hand in the event they’re required.

"Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution near waterways due to fast-moving current. Parents and teachers are urged to speak to children and students about the dangers of waterways," says the City of Winnipeg.

Basement flooding is a risk when river levels rise because the sewer system must rely heavily on pumping stations rather than gravity to carry the water runoff due to higher river levels.

The City advises homeowners to take the appropriate steps to protect their homes and property:

  • Arrange for a licensed plumber to install a sewer line backup valve and a sump pit with pump in the basement.
  • Inspect backup valves and sump pump drainage systems to make sure they are functioning properly.
  • Ensure drainage is directed away from the home by extending downspouts away from the basement walls and ensuring the earth is built up around the house.