City Responds to Severe Storm

July 12, 2012

Edmonton Fire Rescue responded to more than 40 emergencies in the early hours of July 12, 2012 after a severe thunderstorm in the area. The calls included at least 20 rescues of drivers and passengers of vehicles stranded on Whitemud Drive which had flooded.

Fire crews also responded to 2 fires started by lightning, and to 4 separate emergency related to flooding and electrical hazards.
 
“This was a challenging morning for Fire Rescue,” said Fire Chief Ken Block, “and for many residents, it was a traumatic one. I want to thank our crews and other city staff who responded. It took a team effort to ensure no one got hurt and to deal with the high number of calls. Thanks to all the Edmontonians who cooperated with emergency officials – we can’t do our jobs without the public’s help.”

Parts of Whitemud Drive and 66 Street were closed due to flash flooding, but reopened by noon.

The Mill Woods Recreation Centre pool and fitness centre will remain closed until further notice. The arena continues to be open.

The closure will allow City of Edmonton staff to assess damage to the facility. Power was shut off so staff could safely access the basement, which was flooded with approximately 5 feet of water. The extent of damage to the electrical and pumping systems will impact when the pool can re-open. Information about facility openings and closures is available online. You can also subscribe to receive updates by email or RSS.
 
All River Valley trails are open, but some are quite wet as a result of the heavy rainfall. Citizens are encouraged to use caution on the trails and call 311 to report fallen trees or tree branches on City-owned property. City of Edmonton staff will respond in priority order.

 

For more information:

Online	Contact 311 Online

Telephone	In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311
TTY	780-944-5555
Email	311@edmonton.ca