A year has passed since a powerful atmospheric river wreaked havoc on the south coast of British Columbia, inundating certain areas with over 200 millimeters of rain in just one weekend. Despite the passage of time, many residents are still grappling with the aftermath of the catastrophic event.
Adam Swain is tirelessly clearing out debris from his water-damaged basement, while Ali Mirzaei finds himself in a legal battle as his insurance fails to cover the full extent of the damages incurred.
Among the heartbreaking stories is that of a Coquitlam home swept away in a mudslide, claiming the life of a beloved local teacher. The community has come together to salvage the belongings of Sonia McIntyre, one of the four casualties of the ferocious storm.
The scars of the disaster are evident along Hyde Creek, a constant reminder for those affected. The traumatic experience has left residents constantly vigilant, fearing the reoccurrence of a similar catastrophe.
City officials have pledged to enhance flood prevention infrastructure, including upgrades to a pumping station, yet these measures remain pending, fueling anxiety among residents.
The looming threat of another rainstorm amplifies the stress for individuals like Swain and Mirzaei, who face financial strain and uncertainty in the wake of the disaster. Mirzaei, who was recently settling into his new home when disaster struck, is disillusioned by the inadequate support from insurance and government assistance programs.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada estimates that the damages from the atmospheric river exceed $110 million. However, for many, the true cost transcends monetary value, as they grapple with the emotional and physical toll of the catastrophic event.