Post wildfire natural hazards risk analysis - Cultus Creek wildfire

Nelson, BC:  The Province of British Columbia’s Ministry of Forests (Previously known as Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development), has released its post wildfire natural hazards risk analysis reports for the Cultus Creek wildfire from 2021. This report contains information on potential hazards and risks following a wildfire, such as downslope and downstream risks to life, property and infrastructure. To view the report click www.rdck.ca/hazardreports.

Following a wildfire, the chances of soil erosion, landslides, and floods can increase. This risk can be enhanced with intense rainfall or rapid snowmelt. To better understand the risk, the Ministry of Forests conducts post wildfire analysis of the hazard areas that can affect residents.

“While this is not a heavily populated area, there are a number of recreational properties and an important supply line via the railroad that were impacted,” said Chris Johnson, RDCK Manager of Community Sustainability. “The information provided by the Ministry of Forests advises how conditions may have changed as a result of the wildfire, and we encourage residents or anyone planning to visit the area this year to update their emergency plans accordingly.”

For information on emergency preparedness, visit emergency management in B.C.

2021 was an unprecedented year for emergencies. The Cultus Creek wildfire was first discovered on July 2, 2021 on the west shore of the south arm of Kootenay Lake within the Kootenay Lake Provincial Park. As a result, residents and recreation sites in Electoral Area A in the Midge Creek to Next Creek area were on Evacuation Order between July 23-25.

The Post Wildfire Natural Hazard Risk Analysis reports for previous wildfire events are also available on our website at: www.rdck.ca/hazardreports.

The RDCK encourages residents to remain prepared for unexpected events or emergencies by making a plan and having a household emergency kit and a grab and go bag. As well, it is recommended for residents to exercise extreme caution in areas below recent wildfires and near creeks. Following a wildfire, the likelihood of the occurrence of landslides, erosion, floods and snow avalanches within or downslope of the burned area can increase.

For more information about emergency preparedness, along with other resources:

To report floods or landslides, contact Emergency Management BC at 1.800.663.3456

 Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.

The content on this page was last updated April 14 2022 at 8:40 AM