City of Powell River is providing a limited number of sandbags to city residents to help combat flooding as large snow accumulation on residential properties begins to melt. Heavy rainfall is also expected over the next few days.
The sandbags are located outside the main gates to the city works yard on Duncan Street and are available for free pickup on a first-come, first-serve basis. The burlap bags are pre-filled with sand and ready for use.
“People can pick up some sandbags if needed to armour their residences from potential flooding,” said city director of infrastructure Tor Birtig in a media release. “It’s a limited supply and we’ll attempt to replenish it when resources permit.”
Birtig said the city is hoping residents will assist its work crews in combating potential flood hazards, such as plugged catch basins in storm drains, and to notify the city if any drains are being clogged by ice or snow.
“We are asking everyone to be diligent and to assist us where possible," said Birtig, "because of the heavy rain that is expected on top of the snow."
