B.C. Downgrades Flood Watches, Lifts Evacuation Alerts
The situation in British Columbia’s South Coast has recently seen some positive developments following a record-setting storm. The B.C. River Forecast Centre has downgraded several flood watches to high streamflow advisories across the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island.
B.C. Downgrades Flood Watches
On Tuesday morning, David Campbell, the head of the B.C. River Forecast Centre, confirmed the adjustments in flood management status. He stated that there is no expectation for river flows to escalate to flood levels. “We’ve pushed that now to a high streamflow advisory,” Campbell noted, indicating a shift in the weather pattern after heavy rainfall over the weekend.
Rainfall Statistics
- 75 mm of rain recorded in Abbotsford
- 108 mm in Chilliwack
- 103 mm in Mission
- 121 mm in Agassiz
- 340 mm at Kennedy Lake Forestry Station, Vancouver Island
The heavy rains occurred between January 10 and 12, as reported by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Following the storm, meteorologist Bobby Sekhon mentioned a transition into a dry weather pattern expected for several days.
Evacuation Alerts Lifted
In positive news, evacuation alerts for 205 properties near the Chilliwack River were lifted. This decision came on January 13, 2025, easing concerns for residents like Steph Murray, who expressed she was not overly worried about the rising waters. Despite the drier forecast, high streamflow advisories remain in effect throughout the region.
Impact on Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island experienced the highest rainfall, impacting numerous communities. Evacuation orders and alerts issued on January 10 were rescinded shortly thereafter. Areas like Nanaimo, Chemainus, and Parksville were affected, with significant flooding reported in the Englishman River.
Nick Rivers, president of Arrowsmith Search and Rescue, highlighted that the river was 15 feet higher than average, causing damage to homes and vehicles. Many residents had no road access due to flooding, requiring emergency assistance.
Conclusion
As British Columbia transitions from heavy rains to a drier period, the downgrade of flood watches brings some reassurance to residents. However, authorities continue to monitor river levels to mitigate any potential threats remaining from the recent storm.
