St. Catharines residents affected by heavy rainstorms in July and August are urged to complete a new flooding survey to assist in securing provincial disaster relief funds. The City of St. Catharines recently introduced an online form to gather specific information from residents who faced flooding, aiming to provide a clearer picture of the extent and impact of the floods.
According to Mayor Mat Siscoe, numerous residents are still grappling with the aftermath of the significant flooding caused by consecutive summer storms that led to sewage backup in thousands of homes. The storms, estimated to have caused approximately $360 million in damages across Niagara and surrounding areas, overwhelmed the sanitary sewer system.
Residents impacted by the floods are encouraged to fill out the form, as every response is crucial in comprehending the overall impact on the community and strengthening advocacy for provincial aid. While the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program offers financial assistance for emergency expenses and repairs following natural disasters, it typically does not cover sewer backup damages, except for specific cases involving low-income households.
The city emphasized that the flooding resulted from the storm’s intensity rather than any infrastructure deficiencies. Efforts are underway to assess the flood damage in Niagara for potential DRAO assistance, with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing working closely with municipalities to determine eligibility for aid. The city is actively collaborating with the province, providing detailed information on flood impacts to support discussions regarding relief funding through DRAO.
Residents who experienced external water entry into their homes or observed nearby waterways overflowing during the floods are urged to share their experiences. This information will not only aid in current relief efforts but also contribute to future planning and resilience initiatives. In addition to the online form, flooding incidents can be reported by calling 905-688-5600.
