After the recent weather event that caused flooding in the Lower Mainland over the weekend, authorities have confirmed that the worst is over. However, the region can still expect unsettled weather throughout the week.
Connie Chapman, the executive director of water management for the Government of British Columbia, provided an update on Monday afternoon stating that peak flows in rivers and streams are now underway. While the Sumas and Chilliwack rivers are being closely monitored with ongoing flood warnings, the Nooksack River is no longer a concern.
Chapman mentioned that the upcoming week will see continued unsettled weather, but cooler temperatures may bring more snowfall at higher elevations rather than rain.
Environment Canada forecasts rainfall across the Abbotsford area to Metro Vancouver throughout the week, possibly transitioning to flurries as temperatures drop towards 0 degrees Celsius by the week’s end.
Kelly Greene, the Minister of Emergency Management in British Columbia, emphasized the evolving nature of the situation, highlighting the continued risks. Currently, about 100 properties remain under evacuation orders, while an additional 1,200 are under evacuation alert due to rising water levels.
Evacuation orders for properties in Sumas Prairie West were partially lifted just before noon on Monday, although 75 properties in the area still remain under evacuation. The Fraser Valley Regional District also issued evacuation orders for nine properties on Sheldon and Osborne roads due to high flow risks on the Chilliwack River.
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As of Monday morning, Environment Canada has issued four highway alerts. An orange rainfall warning is in effect for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt and Highway 3 from Hope to Princeton via the Allison Pass. Special weather statements are also in place for the Coquihalla Highway from Merritt to Kamloops and the Okanagan Connector from Merritt to Kelowna. Highway 3 from Hope to East Gate remains closed with no estimated time for reopening.
Janelle Staite, deputy director of the South Coast Region, reported progress with 21 identified sites and two already cleared. She mentioned challenges at five sites, requiring culvert repairs and replacements, with timelines expected in the coming days.
While Highway 1 and Highway 99 have reopened after precautionary closures, drivers are advised to be prepared for potential new closures due to the ongoing situation.