Swan River mandatory evacuation order lifted

Cleanup from flooding is delayed in Swan River until water levels fully recede.

The Town of Swan River lifted its mandatory evacuation order on Saturday, allowing evacuees to return home.

In a social media post at 10:54 a.m., the town said the order was lifted effective immediately but asked the evacuees to use extreme caution.

The town previously issued the order for residents on Duncan Crescent, Heyes Street, Crescent Drive, Centennial Drive, Sixth Avenue North, Seventh Avenue North and River Park Drive.

The town said that while the order was lifted, significant hazards remain in the affected areas, including standing flood waters, unstable trees due to saturated ground, electrical and roadway hazards.

The town is also advising residents not to drain out flooded basements too quickly.

“Pumping water too quickly while water remains around the outside of your home’s foundation can create pressure difference that may result in cracked walls, damaged floors, or even structural failure,” officials said.

“Residents are encouraged to pump gradually and monitor conditions carefully.”

To assist the cleanup effort, the town is offering a limited number of portable pumps residents can borrow. They are on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last and residents will be required to bring their photo identification showing address, sign a risk waiver, use their own fuel and return the pump within the loan period.

Residents are asked to put all flood-damaged debris on their front lawn in one pile for future collection – except refrigerators and freezers, which need to be placed out separately.

Staff and volunteers at the donation centre are putting together cleaning supply packages for residents, which will be announced by the town when they are ready for pickup.

“Today marks an important milestone as our community begins transitioning from emergency response into recovery,” the post read.

“While there is still much work ahead, we are incredibly proud of the resilience, compassion and determination shown by our residents, volunteers, emergency responders, town staff businesses and partner organizations throughout this event.”