JUNE 1, 2020
*submitted by the RDCK*
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has rescinded all evacuation orders for Broadwater Rd (Robson) in electoral Area J. The original evacuation order for the area was issued over the weekend; however, overnight our creeks and rivers have begun to recede and flow rates have reduced throughout the region allowing the order to be lifted. The area remains under evacuation alert.
Broadwater Rd continues to be closed due to washout at approximately 6km. Please contact YRB if you have questions.
Residents will be allowed to return to their homes, but are reminded to practice extreme caution. The potential impact in the area from flooding can include contaminated flood water, debris, and riverbanks either undermined or undercut. Be aware of any hazards when returning to your property and proceed with caution. If you have any issues with public roads, power lines, or gas lines, please contact YRB 1-888-630-1420, BC Hydro 1-800-224-9376 or Fortis BC 1-800-663-9911 directly.
It is important to note that while the waters have begun to recede, the event that occurred this past weekend will have had significant impacts throughout the region. This includes the possibility of debris floods and flows, landslides, logjams, culvert blockages and general erosion along banks, so it is necessary for residents to be aware of the potential danger and practice caution. Any communities checking on water systems or water boxes need to be aware of all danger. Some areas will even still be flooded.
“The storm system that passed through our region this weekend caused havoc on our water systems, but has cycled through and water levels in our smaller creeks and tributaries are back to pre-storm levels, while the Slocan River and Salmo River, our larger systems, will continue to decrease throughout this day,” said Chris Johnson, RDCK Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Director. “It is important for everyone to exercise extreme caution near streams, creeks, and rivers as it is difficult to fully understand the extent of the changes or damages to our systems.”
Due to extreme heat and snowmelt, followed by severe thunderstorms and precipitation this weekend, the RDCK faced unprecedented water levels in rivers and creeks throughout the region with over 500 homes evacuated. Expectation is with cooler temperatures and no precipitation in the immediate forecast, water levels will continue to recede. Everyone is advised to stay away from riverbanks and fast-flowing water.
For information about support after being impacted by such an event please monitor the RDCK website for details.
For more information about evacuations and emergency preparedness, along with other resources, please visit the RDCK website or the PreparedBC website. The RDCK EOC public enquiry line is 250-352-1572.
MAY 31, 21:00 PM
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued an evacuation order for 3966-4013 Broadwater Road in electoral area ‘J’. This order expands on an earlier order for Broadwater Road Sunday morning.
Click here to view a map of affected addresses.
MAY 31, 4:00 PM
Units within the area of 4029 Broadwater Road have been issued an evacuation order.
“Residents and visitors are required to leave the affected area immediately and check into the Sandman Inn, 1944 Columbia Ave, Castlegar, BC V1N 2W7,” The Regional District announced on Sunday, May 31, 2020. “Due to COVID-19 we ask everyone to do their best to practice physical distancing and wash or sanitize their hands regularly.”
Residents will not be permitted to return to their homes during the evacuation order unless it is safe to do so. Locals must also have permission of local officials and emergency personnel to enter the controlled area.
Evacuated residents are asked to check in with reception at the Sandman Inn and to inform them of the evacuation order.
“Short-term assistance for immediate needs of food, shelter, clothing and emotional support is provided by Emergency Social Services volunteers through this centre. Volunteers will be able to help you find an alternate place to stay if needed.” The RDCK added.
Make sure pets are secured in appropriate cages, and food and water/bowls for the animals as the hotel may not be able to accommodate your pet’s needs. Also ensure pets are tagged and wearing identification. Another option is to have pets cared for by family or friends.
For now, the RDCK asks everyone to stay away from riverbanks and fast-flowing water.
For the full update from the RDCK including the list of affected properties, follow this link.
