Isaiah John McKay managed to leave Red Earth Cree Nation in time by road, but his aunt required helicopter evacuation. McKay, a 21-year-old resident, is part of the mass exodus from homes due to severe flooding. Witnessing water levels rise up to knee height, McKay expressed concerns about the impact on homes made of old wood, which may deteriorate soon.
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has recorded 22 floods in the province, resulting in numerous communities being evacuated. McKay, who evacuated with his uncle and grandparents, mentioned this being his third evacuation, with previous instances being due to wildfires and heavy smoke.
Despite most evacuees using their vehicles, McKay noted the presence of three charter buses, suggesting significant property damage in Red Earth Cree Nation. While acknowledging the chaotic situation, McKay expressed gratitude for the support provided by the Red Cross, emphasizing the community’s shared hope of returning home soon.
In a positive development, residents of Patuanak and La Plonge are expected to regain access after a week of road closures due to flooding. The highways ministry advises caution on the restored road, where maintenance crews worked tirelessly from both ends to make it passable again.
English River First Nation’s emergency management coordinator, Candyce Paul, praised residents for their resilience during the crisis. She reported that most residents were returning home, highlighting the challenges posed by severe road washouts and the collaborative efforts to address essential needs.
Paul detailed significant road damages, with washouts up to six feet deep and 12 feet wide, necessitating contingency plans for essential services. While cautiously optimistic, she acknowledged the remaining risk factors, such as impending rain, affecting the ongoing recovery efforts.
Meanwhile, evacuees from Red Earth Cree Nation are facing prolonged displacement, with hundreds relocated to Prince Albert and Saskatoon due to the flooding. Paul highlighted the potential delay in the wildfire season due to the excess water, emphasizing preparedness for any future emergencies through mitigation strategies and securing necessary funding.