Northwest Territories government to pay repair costs from spring flooding

YELLOWKNIFE – The government of the Northwest Territories says it will cover the cost to repair or replace homes damaged by spring flooding.

The government says 70 homes were affected in Fort Simpson, 16 to 18 in Jean Marie River and 10 in Fort Good Hope after rivers rose to historic levels, which forced entire communities to be evacuated and displaced hundreds of people.

The territory says it will replace homes that were damaged beyond repair and pay for all work needed to restore homes.

Many homes being repaired will be raised off the ground to prevent risk of future flood damage.

The government says damage assessments are to be completed by July 18 and residents can also submit claims for lost or damaged items.

The government had previously announced an emergency fund for flood victims that would cover up to $100,000 per claim.

Feature image: Homes damaged by historic levels of flooding are seen in Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories on Thursday May 20, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Whelly