NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF KAPUSKASING
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Current Situation:
There is a potential for community flooding resulting from the ice break-up due to spring temperatures.
The dyke system surrounding the Kashechewan First Nations (FN) community has been assessed as ineffective against ice flows at the community.
There is no immediate threat to the community at this time. This evacuation is a deliberate precautionary measure.
Kashechewan First Nation
Kashechewan FN declared an Emergency on April 27, 2016 due to ice break up and potential flooding. The community has requested a precautionary evacuation to take place.
There are approximately 728 Stage One evacuees and 479 Stage Two evacuees in the community.
Evacuation flights for Stage One evacuees will commence on April 29, 2016 with intent to evacuate 448 persons to Kapuskasing.
The first of 728 Stage One residents, (vulnerable residents, families with young children, elderly, persons with mobility issues or with health issues) will commence arriving at the Kapuskasing Airport starting at 12 (noon) today, with flights arriving every hour and will continue until tomorrow.
The first 448 residents will remain in Kapuskasing and lodged at local motels, while the remaining residents will be directed to other host communities.
Meals and emergency supplies will be provided at the Civic Center Auditorium.
Other Information
Federal, Provincial and non-government stakeholders will continue to work with the Kashechewan FN and the host community of Kapuskasing.
Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is coordinating flight schedules.
Planning is currently underway to locate additional host communities for remaining evacuees.
The first aircraft is anticipated to arrive in the FN community at 10 a.m., April 29, 2016 and flights will continue throughout the weekend until the Phase One to Kapuskasing has been completed.
Additional aircraft are being sourced for subsequent phases of the evacuation to other host communities.
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