MP Zimmer Tours Communities Affected By Severe Storm

FORT ST. JOHN – Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies, toured the communities of Blueberry River First Nations, Altona, Buick, and Prespatou yesterday to survey the damage left by the severe storm on June 30 and to speak with residents who have been affected.

“The level of destruction was incredible. I hadn’t expected the scale of the damage until I saw it firsthand,” said Mr. Zimmer. “At one point we saw a pathway the storm had taken through the trees as if a bulldozer had driven through it.”

Residents showed Mr. Zimmer the damage that had been done to their properties, including grain bins that have been tipped over or torn from foundation, new home construction that has been destroyed, and buildings blown over with farm equipment inside. There was also extensive tree damage in the area and you could clearly see the storm’s trail of destruction.

“These communities have shown incredible resolve and it was great to see neighbours coming together to help one another through this difficult time,” said Mr. Zimmer. “Special thanks to Ernie Wiebe who took us around to many of the individuals affected.”

“There is a lot of work that still needs to be done,” Mr. Zimmer continued. “The storm may have passed but its effects will remain for a while. My office is here to help where we can. Please feel free to reach out to us at any time.”