More rain is on the way.
With potential flooding predicted for parts of Vancouver Island, sandbags are a good way to divert flood waters. While it doesn’t guarantee water will not reach your home, it will help. Many local governments will provide sandbags to residents for free.
According to Environment Canada, parts of Vancouver Island could receive up to 200 mm of rain from now until Wednesday.
A new ‘atmospheric river’ weather system is expected to bring heavy rains this week.
Central, northern, and western Vancouver Island will be hit especially hard, particularly the region from Tofino north to Tahsis and Zeballos.
If you are in need of sand bags, here is where you can find them and we’ll keep updating as we find more locations:
- Victoria: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Topaz Park parking lot (Glasgow Street)
- Saanich: Municipal Yard (1040 McKenzie Avenue)
- Sooke: Parks Works Yard (2070 Kaltasin Road, bring a shovel)
- Sidney: The Town of Sidney continues to replenish its sandbag station in the parking lot of Iroquois Park. They will keep it open while the wet weather continues. It is a self-serve station with no set hours.
- Central Saanich: The District has a self-serve sandbag station across the road from the Public Works Yard (1703 Keating X Road). If you need assistance with sandbags, call Public Works at at 250-544-4224.
Know of another location in Greater Victoria offering sandbags? Let us know at tips@victoriabuzz.com.com.
How to properly sandbag
Step 1
Place a plastic tarp in front of any doors that are threatened by flood waters. This liner is essential because sandbags alone will not stop flood water.
Step 2
The tarp needs to be placed high enough to cover the expected flood waters. The tarp can be attached to the doorframe with screws.
Step 3
Place the first row of sandbags horizontally across the entire doorway and touching the exterior of the house. Flatten the sandbags so they fit as tight as possible against the exterior of the house and the doorway.
Step 4
Stack the next row of sandbags on top of the first. The bags should be stacked pyramid style, meaning the bag on top should be stacked evenly over two bags on the bottom row. Repeat this method for each additional row.
Step 5
Flatten the sandbags by stepping on them to seal them tightly into place and to help seal any cracks.
