Flood of 99
Riverdale City Newsletter Article August 1999
RIVERDALE FLOOD OF 1999
On July 11, 1999, the largest disaster in Riverdale's history occurred. At approximately 12:08 p.m. a section of the Davis-Weber Canal gave way above the Pinebrook subdivision. The break in the canal sent thousands upon thousands of gallons of water and mud down onto the homes below.
Riverdale City Public Safety reacted quickly to the flood scene securing the area to protect residents from harm. Miraculously there were no deaths or serious injuries associated with the flood.
The water feeding the canal was quickly shut off, but water already in the canal continued to flow for approximately four hours after the break occurred. When the water and mud stopped flowing, the scene was grim. Over 140 properties received damage from the water and mud. Many homes had basements filled with mud and water, while many others who once had beautiful yards now had only mud surrounding their homes. Golden Spike Park became the final resting place for much of the water and mud. The green park had now become a muddy reservoir. Once the damage was done and people were safe, cleanup efforts began immediately.
The City of Riverdale responded with every resource possible to assist residents in the wake of this disaster.
City officials quickly responded to the disaster area. Public Works crews were immediately called in and every piece of city equipment that could be utilized was brought to the scene with crews working into the night. The Riverdale City Community Center was opened to the Red Cross for their relief efforts.
Police from Riverdale and other agencies secured the area day and night to protect residents' belongings. The city brought in dumpsters and paid the dumping fees for the thousands of pounds of refuse.
The city worked side by side with the Red Cross, LDS Church, Swanson Family Foundation, and ARES (Amateur radio operators) to assure that the affected residents and volunteers received the help and support they needed.
During the weeks that followed the disaster, the response of Riverdale residents, surrounding communities, and local businesses was nothing short of amazing. Thousands upon thousands of volunteers came to help dig mud and restore homes and yards. Hundreds of businesses donated needed materials and money to help. It was a remarkable outpouring of help that left many simply speechless.
As a result of the tremendous efforts, today there is little sign of the mud that once covered the flooded neighborhoods. Mud covered lawns have been uncovered and replanted. Homes have been cleaned and are being restored. The only lingering sign is the newly formed canyon where the break occurred and the mounds of dirt beneath it.
The city would like to give its thanks and gratitude to the thousands of volunteers who helped with the massive cleanup and to all those individuals and businesses who donated many items and money to assist with the cleanup efforts. Our community and those around us really came through in a difficult time. This city has never seen such an outpouring of giving and caring. Thank you all for your involvement.
RIVERDALE FLOOD OF 1999
On July 11, 1999, the largest disaster in Riverdale's history occurred. At approximately 12:08 p.m. a section of the Davis-Weber Canal gave way above the Pinebrook subdivision. The break in the canal sent thousands upon thousands of gallons of water and mud down onto the homes below.
Riverdale City Public Safety reacted quickly to the flood scene securing the area to protect residents from harm. Miraculously there were no deaths or serious injuries associated with the flood.
The water feeding the canal was quickly shut off, but water already in the canal continued to flow for approximately four hours after the break occurred. When the water and mud stopped flowing, the scene was grim. Over 140 properties received damage from the water and mud. Many homes had basements filled with mud and water, while many others who once had beautiful yards now had only mud surrounding their homes. Golden Spike Park became the final resting place for much of the water and mud. The green park had now become a muddy reservoir. Once the damage was done and people were safe, cleanup efforts began immediately.
The City of Riverdale responded with every resource possible to assist residents in the wake of this disaster.
City officials quickly responded to the disaster area. Public Works crews were immediately called in and every piece of city equipment that could be utilized was brought to the scene with crews working into the night. The Riverdale City Community Center was opened to the Red Cross for their relief efforts.
Police from Riverdale and other agencies secured the area day and night to protect residents' belongings. The city brought in dumpsters and paid the dumping fees for the thousands of pounds of refuse.
The city worked side by side with the Red Cross, LDS Church, Swanson Family Foundation, and ARES (Amateur radio operators) to assure that the affected residents and volunteers received the help and support they needed.
During the weeks that followed the disaster, the response of Riverdale residents, surrounding communities, and local businesses was nothing short of amazing. Thousands upon thousands of volunteers came to help dig mud and restore homes and yards. Hundreds of businesses donated needed materials and money to help. It was a remarkable outpouring of help that left many simply speechless.
As a result of the tremendous efforts, today there is little sign of the mud that once covered the flooded neighborhoods. Mud covered lawns have been uncovered and replanted. Homes have been cleaned and are being restored. The only lingering sign is the newly formed canyon where the break occurred and the mounds of dirt beneath it.
The city would like to give its thanks and gratitude to the thousands of volunteers who helped with the massive cleanup and to all those individuals and businesses who donated many items and money to assist with the cleanup efforts. Our community and those around us really came through in a difficult time. This city has never seen such an outpouring of giving and caring. Thank you all for your involvement.