Sioux Valley Dakota Nation declares state of emergency

Sioux Valley Dakota Nation is seen in this 2012 photo. (Facebook/SVDN Governance)

Sioux Valley Dakota Nation in southwestern Manitoba declared a state of emergency.

In a social media post late Saturday night, the nation said the declaration was due to rapidly rising flood waters in the community and surrounding areas.

This comes after the City of Brandon’s state of emergency declaration late Saturday evening for the forecasted flooding.

“The safety and well-being of our members remain our highest priority,” the nation said in a media release.

“Chief and Council, together with our emergency management team and staff, are actively monitoring conditions, coordinating emergency response efforts and working closely with provincial and federal partners to ensure necessary supports and resources are available.”

Community members are asked to follow all emergency notices and instructions, and avoid flooded roads, waterways and other dangerous areas.

“We encourage everyone to prepare for the possibility of changing conditions by ensuring emergency supplies, medications and important documents are readily available.”

Official updates, emergency notices and any evacuation information will be shared through the nation’s official communication channels, including its website, Facebook page and mobile app.

“We understand that this situation is causing concern for many families,” the nation said.

“We want to assure our members that Sioux Valley Dakota Nation is taking every necessary step to protect our community and will continue to provide timely updates as new information becomes available.”

As of Sunday morning, the Assiniboine River north of Griswold – closest data point available to the nation – is at 1,197.89 feet, according to the province’s river conditions and forecasts map.

The map says the peak is expected between July 10 and 13 with a level between 1,203.1 and 1,204.1 feet. The bankfull level capacity is 1,196.4 feet.

Volunteers requested

Sunday morning, the nation said its infrastructure team needs volunteer sandbaggers, deliverers and stackers to protect homes in the community. In addition, community cooks are also requested to help feed flood workers.

While the request for sandbaggers was emphasized, all positions are needed immediately.

Volunteers can contact Neil Wanbdiska at 204-441-0075 or the nation’s public works office at 204-813-6243.

Sioux Valley Dakota Nation is located about 40 kilometres west of Brandon, Man. and 240 kilometres west of Winnipeg. About 1,300 people live on the reserve, with 2,683 people registered with the nation.