Alberta floods
Alberta floods
Alberta floods
September blog
In June 2013, Calgary and surrounding areas experienced heavy rainfall that triggered catastrophic flooding described by the provincial government as the worst in Alberta's history. Areas along the Bow, Elbow, Highwood, Red Deer, Sheep, Little Bow, and South Saskatchewan rivers were particularly affected. A total of 32 states of local emergency were declared and 28 emergency operations centres were activated as water levels rose and numerous communities were placed under evacuation orders.
Four people were confirmed dead as a direct result of the flooding and over 100,000 people were displaced throughout the region. Some 2,200 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) troops were deployed to help in flooded areas. Preliminary estimates suggest damage from the flood could be between C$3–5 billion. Receding waters gave way to a mammoth cleanup of affected areas, aided by a spontaneous volunteer campaign in which many home owners were assisted by complete strangers.
July 5 brought on the 101 Calgary Stampede and though some feared it would be cancelled for the first time ever the decision was made and the show went on as planned. Vacuum Wholesalers 2nd annual Stampede B.B.Q sponsored by Canplas was scheduled for July 5. Justin and Rob from Canplas flew in from Barrie, Ontario to help with the planning and also enjoy a few days of Stampeding.
As High River was greatly affected by the flooding, our Family made the desicion to pay it forward and go out and see what we could do to help some of the devastated Families of High River. Without having any Family or friends in Alberta directly affected, Justin and Rob also insisted on coming out with us and volunteering their time also.
Upon driving into High River we could not concieve the seemingly irrepairable damage that had been done. Although we had seen pictures online as well as in the news, words could not describe what we were faced with. We spent the day surrounded by garbage, mud and mounds of wood, drywall and personal belongings including Christmas decorations, university diplomas, and children's keepsakes all ruined and destined for a garbage bin as home owner's observed with tears in thier eyes.
As the day concluded we were physically and emotionally exhausted, grateful we could contribute and also thankful we were not affected. We hope that we can offer further support in the future. A big heartfelt thanks to Justin and Rob for taking time out of their busy schedules to pitch in. Every little bit makes a difference.
If you have been affected by the floods and are in need of repairs or replacement of your central vacuum system please call our office 403-243-8800 and we will arrange to have one of our technicians come out to assess your situation. We will offer special pricing to those affected.
On Sunday September 8, High River is having a donations day. If you have any donations of clothes, blankets, dishes & household items they can be dropped off at Sheppard Family Park in High River.
