(Canadian Press)

By David Opinko

Fort McMurray floods caused over $228-million in insured damages

Jun 1, 2020 | 12:27 PM

FORT MCMURRAY, AB – The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reports that just over a quarter of a billion dollars in insurable damages this spring.

An ice jam formed on the Athabasca River on April 26 near Fort McMurray that caused water levels to rise by 4.5 to six metres across low-lying areas.

Approximately 13,000 people were evacuated between Sunday, April 26 and Saturday, May, 2.

“The majority of the insured damage relates to commercial property, with the remaining losses affecting personal property and automobiles,” reads a media release from IBC.

It is estimated that over 1,200 structures were affected by the floods.

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“Flooding events like the ones in northern Alberta are costly, stressful and difficult for those affected,” said Vice President Celyeste Power. “IBC wants to work with all stakeholders to reduce the financial strain and stress caused by future flood events. By working together, we can ensure that all Canadians, regardless of their flood risk, can access affordable flood insurance.”

The Government of Alberta announced $147-million in disaster recovery support for impacted residents.

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