RDCK

Evacuation Alert rescinded for communities along the Lardeau River, Duncan River, and surrounding tributaries

1:15 pm PST

Nelson, BC:  The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has rescinded the Evacuation Alert for all communities along the Lardeau River, Duncan River, and surrounding tributaries stretching from the northern end of Kootenay Lake to Trout Lake in Electoral Area D due to water levels dropping. This includes the communities of Cooper Creek, Meadow Creek, Marblehead, and Poplar Creek.

A hydrologist assessment indicates the water levels have dropped below levels that would cause concern for flooding. The current Environment and Climate Change Canada forecast supports a rescind of the Evacuation Alert.

Evacuation Alert Rescinded PDF

BC River Forecast Centre downgraded the Flood Watch for the Lardeau River to a Flood Warning. Most rivers throughout the region have reached peak levels due to accelerated snowmelt and earlier thunderstorm rain events. The Lardeau River remains high, with 2-year to 10-yeaer flows being currently observed. However, cooler temperatures will assist with reduced snowmelt runoff. Residents are advised to remain prepared. The key to emergency preparedness is knowing the risks and having a plan. Know the hazards in your areas and take the time NOW to assemble your family Emergency Kit and Grab and Go Bag. Your plan should also include where you will meet if you need to evacuate, including how you would move pets and livestock to a safe area, in the event the situation worsens, and an Evacuation Order is enforced.

A reminder that fast-flowing rivers pose increased risk to safety. Stay away from rivers and river banks, which can be unstable. Never drive through floodwaters, as unseen hazards and current can be life threatening. All residents should exercise extreme caution around rivers and creeks and report erosion, landslides, or flooding to the Provincial Emergency Coordinator Centre at 1.800.663.3456.

Information about Evacuation Orders and Alerts in the RDCK can be found on the RDCK website and Facebook. For details about evacuation and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. The RDCK EOC public inquiry line is 250.352.7701.

What residents can do to be prepared:

  • Sandbags and sand are available for residents at any of the locations listed on the RDCK website: www.rdck.ca/befloodprepared. Residents must come prepared with their own shovels to fill the bags.
  • Sign up for emergency notifications, through Voyent Alert! The RDCK uses the mass-notification system to send out critical information to residents and visitors in the event of an emergency.
  • If you will require government assistance to meet your basic needs if evacuated (like lodging or food), Emergency Support Services will be available.  Create a profile at https://ess.gov.bc.ca.
  • For details about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit www.rdck.ca/eocinfo. Follow the RDCK website and Facebook for the most up to date information.
  • If you have livestock or large animals, now is the time to consider moving them.
  • If you are not physically able to evacuate yourself, contact the EOC public inquiry line at 250.352.7701.

For more emergency preparedness resources:

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