Two days after a severe wind and rain storm shattered trees and knocked out power lines serving thousands in the region, District of Sooke workers continue to clean up tons of debris.
Trees were downed throughout the community, including Ed Mcgregor, Deerlepe, Bluffs and Sooke Potholes. The Sooke Potholes remain closed until further notice. Four property owners also reported fallen trees on homes.
Sooke Fire responded to 33 calls overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday morning.
Clean up from windstorm continues throughout the community: Access to Sooke Potholes via Sooke River Road remains closed, read more: https://t.co/NEfuMAnhPX #Sooke #BCstorm @SookeFire @SookeRCMP @bchydro @EmconSouthVI @crd_bc pic.twitter.com/SBhyVIqex7
— SookeCa (@SookeCa) January 14, 2021
Parks crews will continue to manage the cleanup into next week, say officials.
“It will take some time for our team to clear all sites,” said Jessica Boquist, parks and environmental services coordinator.
“Trees were downed in several parks, and tree crews are in high demand.”
There is significant debris ashore at Whiffin Spit, including large rocks that have washed onto the parking lot.
The district plans a significant clean up with heavy equipment on Tuesday (Jan. 19) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the park will remain open as the work is completed, the public is asked to leash their pets and use caution navigating around equipment.
“I really want to thank all involved in responding to this weather event – Sooke Fire Rescue and District Staff, Sooke RCMP, B.C. Hydro, Victoria Contracting, EMCON Services and the Capital Regional District. It takes a coordinated team effort to ensure public safety when Mother Nature calls,” Mayor Maja Tait said.
RELATED: Sooke Potholes closed again due to weather
editor@sookenewsmirror.com
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