As the river continues to rise towards it peak, the RCMP is taking no chances and stepping up security.
A 5 p.m. report shows the Red Deer River flowing at 1,332 cubic metres per second and it is expected to peak later this evening. Staff Sergeant Art Hopkins wants everyone in their homes at that time.
“As most people are aware Drumheller is presently experiencing flood conditions and a local state of emergency has been declared,” said Hopkins. “Areas of evacuation were identified and residents were notified. Many persons have left the area and we have stepped up patrols in most communities.”
He said by 10:00 p.m. tonight, all residents in these areas must be in their houses or left the area.
“Any persons found walking around will be arrested and removed. This is to ensure the security of the residences that are unoccupied as well as the residents who refused to leave,” he said. "Persons requiring to leave their residences for lawful purposes will not be arrested detained or required to go back home. If you are not in these areas for a lawful purpose, you will be detained, possibly escorted out of the area, or taken elsewhere to a lawful location."
The river is expected to peak close to midnight.
