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(City of Red Deer)
report cracks to city

Three landslides occur in Red Deer due to rainfall

Jul 13, 2022 | 10:17 AM

The City of Red Deer says excessive rainfall in recent days has caused three separate landslides — a type of event which hasn’t occurred here in about 20 years.

Thus, the City is now asking residents to watch for signs of cracking or moving ground, specifically in backyards and on escarpments or riverbanks.

The City’s Engineering team says it was made aware of the landslides on July 11 and 12. All of them occurred on private properties around the city, meaning those property owners are responsible for repair costs.

Locations include escarpments in the Cronquist area of West Park, while the other two are adjacent to Waskasoo Creek.

(City of Red Deer)

“We are working closely with affected residents to assess risk of any future slides and will do the same if we receive reports of other areas of concern,” said Engineering Manager Konrad Dunbar. “Public safety is our top priority, and we are doing what we can to support the community.”

The City has also enlisted the aid of a consultant to provide additional expertise as the problem is reviewed. To this point, there is no damage to City infrastructure.

“While we are assessing known problem areas, we are asking residents for their help by letting us know if they see any cracks or movement in the land so we can come assess the area,” said Dunbar.

Residents who see large cracks or a landslide should call Engineering directly at 403-406-8793. If it is an emergency, call 9-1-1.

(City of Red Deer)

“At this time, there is some risk of slides in other areas of the city, but that risk decreases each day warm weather helps to dry up the land. The highest risk remains on those properties with slopes or close proximity to embankments which could give way,” said Dunbar. “We are just asking people to be cautious and to report any concerns.”

The City adds that there have been no evacuations.

In June 2022, The City reported between 167 and 182 mm of rain at different locations across the city. According to Environment Canada, from 1981 to 2010, the average precipitation for the month of June at the Red Deer Regional Airport was 94 mm.