Heavy Rain Update

For immediate release: June 21, 2022 - 9:45 am

UE22-3209

Yesterday, Saskatoon experienced heavy rain with accumulations concentrated in the south, east and north sides of the city. Upwards of 75 millimeters were received in some spots. City crews worked throughout the evening and overnight to address flooded intersections, popped manhole covers and other flood-related issues on roadways.

Water has receded from flooded streets and most intersections were clear for today’s commute except for a limited number of areas in the south east which still have barricades in place for driver and pedestrian safety. These barricades are anticipated to be removed by the end of day.

Saskatoon Transit

Saskatoon Transit routes are running as normal but will continue to detour around barricaded areas. The terminal at Market Mall is currently inaccessible because of detours in the area, so please use other stops. Check the Transit App for up-to-date information.

Leisure Facilities

Impacted facilities have re-opened today during regular operating hours. Exceptions are: Lions Arena and Lawson Civic Centre, where the pool is open but the fitness room remains closed due to water seepage.

Water & Waste Operations

Waste collection took place as scheduled except for a small area in the Avalon area yesterday. Drivers will return for garbage collection on these streets on Wednesday. A service alert will be shared with impacted households.

Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation

For the safety of all participants, workers and volunteers, the June 21 event has been cancelled. More on this here.

City Flood Protection Infrastructure

Currently, the City’s infrastructure continues to keep up with yesterday’s flood water, but we are monitoring the conditions very closely. More rain is forecasted for Saskatoon and area this week and the system will need several days to recover from Monday’s rainfall. Residents can help by not running washing machines, dishwashers or flushing toilets unless flushing is absolutely necessary.

Be Prepared & Keep Safe

When a rain event such as this occurs, there are things we can all do to keep safe:

Avoid flooded areas altogether if possible.
Do not remove barricades or drive into barricaded areas.
Stay out of the water whether you are in your car or if you are on foot.
Be mindful to avoid flooded areas on your commute to/from work or school – stay up to date with service alerts.
If you encounter flooding on a street, take an alternate route, as deep water can damage a vehicle and cause it to stall.
Do not remove manhole covers – it can be dangerous. Contact the City instead at 306-975-2476.
Do not go near drainage areas in parks and follow all signage in parks that may direct you to not enter when flooding occurs – these areas can also be very hazardous in storm-flow conditions
Emergencies: report stranded vehicles, missing or popped manholes and street or underpass flooding to the City of Saskatoon’s 24-Hour Customer Service Centre at 306-975-2476. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Home Flood Protection

To reduce the risk of damage to property, residents should ensure downspouts disperse water at least two metres (six feet) away from the home foundation. Downpours like this can drop a tremendous amount of water in a relatively short period of time. All homes – even those that have never flooded before may have water seep in.

The City has information available for impacted residents on saskatoon.ca/homefloodprotection.

Dry storm ponds worked as intended such as at WW Ashley Park which was recently completed as part of the City’s Flood Control Strategy. Dry storm ponds are designed to hold water that would otherwise cause nearby flooding during intense rainfalls. The water flows from properties and roads into the dry storm pond, then slowly drains into the storm sewer.

For More Information

For up-to-date information, check back on this site or follow service alerts and the City’s social media channels.