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INFRASTRUCTURE

City of Kamloops asks for help clearing catch basins

Dec 30, 2022 | 11:59 AM

KAMLOOPS — Temperatures in the region are set to fluctuate between freezing and above zero for the foreseeable forecast. That’s why the City of Kamloops is asking for help from residents to keep infrastructure like catch basins free of ice and snow to prevent flooding.

The extreme swing in temperatures over the past week kept utility crews busy over Christmas and Boxing Day, as they dealt with frozen pipes and water main breaks.

Utility Services Manager Greg Wightman says the concern now is flooding as a result of blocked catch basins.

“With 7,000 catch basins around town, we are responding to just the emergency puddles, at this point,” Wightman explains. “We’re asking all the city to help out. Just jump on www.kamloops.ca/flooding, there’s a map on there that will show you the nearest catch basin to your home, and if you can, get out and just clear that catch basin, make sure there’s no snow blocking the path of water into that catch basin, so it can take the water as it starts to melt.”

If there are issues that need attention from city crews, Wightman suggests calling the Civic Operations hotline in case an emergency arises with some infrastructure.

“For the remainder of the year, just looking at the forecast, we’re going to be hovering right around minus-two, minus-three every night, and plus-two, plus-three during the day. People just need to remain vigilant. If there are issues with anything related to public infrastructure, contact (250)-828-3461, we’ve got staff on 24/7 to respond to emergencies.”