Hay River residents can return tonight, says mayor
CBC
Residents of Hay River, N.W.T., will be able to return to town as of 6 p.m. Sunday, but the mayor warns that some areas are still without power, water and sewer services, and road access.
"We know that people are frustrated and they've been sitting there waiting," said Kandis Jameson. Now, she added, "at least they have access to their homes, whether they're livable or not, I guess is yet to be seen."
Jameson also cautioned returning residents if their homes are uninhabitable there are limited-to-no accommodations open in town.
She urged residents from harder-hit areas to come up with a plan B if they want access to basic services, like water and sewer or power.
The town of nearly 3,800 people was evacuated Wednesday night because of the flooding. Since then, residents have been eagerly awaiting news about when they can return home.
Town officials say a "detailed" re-opening plan will be released Sunday evening.
Jameson said residents who live between McRorie Drive north and the West Channel Bridge don't have water or sewer service right now, and it may be weeks before they get it back.
There is still no access to Vale Island.
Schools will be closed for at least two weeks as the town works to bring its sewer system back online, said Jameson.
Despite it all, Jameson said town council was excited to have residents come back.
"It's Hay River, we'll figure it out. We'll help each other," said Jameson. "I know we'll make it through this. I know we'll rebuild and I know that we'll be stronger for it."
In an update Sunday afternoon, the town said several areas still remain inaccessible, and water and sewer services aren't properly functioning yet.
The town said some sewer lines are seeing silt buildup, which is affecting piped waste service. Water usage in areas where sewer services have been compromised "creates a risk of further backup issues and hinders the restoration of services."
It also said protective services are doing regular security patrols around the town.
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