Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reports that the estimated insured damage caused by heavy rains and high winds across southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba in late June and July was just over $60 million, according to Property Claim Services (PCS).
"The flooding, wind damage and transportation disruptions caused by these storms disrupted people's lives and businesses," said Bill Adams, IBC Vice-President, Western and Pacific. "People were forced from their homes, roads were flooded and crops were destroyed. These storms are another example of the toll severe weather events are taking on Canadian families and communities."
Parts of southeast Saskatchewan and areas of western Manitoba reported heavy rain fall. States of emergency were called in both provinces. Hundreds of residents had to leave their homes and dozens of roads were impassable due to flooding.
Sections of at least 15 highways, including portions of the TransCanada Highway, were closed due to the flooding. The rain also led to record flow levels on rivers and streams in both provinces.
"The insurance industry continues to spread the word about the need to update infrastructure, to engage consumers on how to protect themselves and their properties against severe weather. The industry is also working with all three levels of government to help develop, promote and implement adaptation measures," Adams said.
He also reminded residents that most insurers offer a 24-hour claims service for filing claims. Claimants should give as much detail as possible when providing information to their insurers, he said.