With the lifting of the evacuation order, people are now returning to their homes.
An ice jam in the Peace River ended up flooding low lying areas of Fort Vermilion, Buttertown and Beaver Ranch.
An evacuation order was issued on April 26 for approximately 450 residents and was lifted at 8:00 this morning.
Mackenzie County Reeve, Josh Knelsen says he was thrilled to announce people can come home but adds that much work remains.
“A lot of the challenges are just beginning but every step forward is a positive step,” says Knelsen.
Knelsen adds that he is hopeful the county will qualify for assistance under the Alberta Disaster Recovery Program.
“This community was established in 1788 so that is not something to take lightly,” explains Knelsen.
“I am hopeful for the right decisions that will go in favour of helping everybody get back on the right path.”
Knelsen also wanted to thank everyone who was there to help with assisting evacuees as well as volunteers.
“From neighbouring municipalities like the Town of High Level, as well as the community of La Crete to host people that were evacuated, to county staff as well as those who came up from the province to help. There are so people that stood up to help, and are continuing to do so.”
Knelsen concluded by expressing optimism for the future.
“This has given everyone any opportunity to come together as a community and as a region and that is what makes this region in the north such a wonderful place to live,” states Knelsen.
If you smell any natural gas, the county is asking you to call Northern Lights Gas Co-op right away.
Samaritan’s Purse and the Mennonite Disaster Services are coordinating volunteer efforts.
Click here to learn more.
– Kenny Trenton, Trending 55 Newsroom
