Peguis declares state of emergency

Overland flooding has forced Peguis First Nation to declare a state of emergency for the second time in the past few weeks.

Chief Glen Hudson said a heavy storm went through the area around 12 a.m. Friday, flooding basements, knocking out power lines and washing out roads.

"It's a very cyclical problem that we're having," said Hudson. "We're flooding at least three, four times a year now.  And we need something done to address this."

Hudson said three weeks ago, 75 people were forced to leave their homes due to flood conditions.

Friday's flood is expected to force a similar number of residents from their homes.

Band members are seeking refugee with friends and family, said Hudson.

Power is still out in parts of the community.

Peguis, located about 185 kilometres from Winnipeg, is the largest First Nations community in the province, with a population of approximately 7,200 people.