The Mission Gauge on the Fraser River has exceeded 5.50m and is forecast to continue rising.
As a result, an evacuation alert was issued yesterday at 2pm. These notices will be distributed by protective services staff to properties in the low lying unprotected areas of:
- Northwest Langley
- Fort Langley
- Glen Valley
These are NOT orders to evacuate. The alert is issued to prepare you to evacuate your premises or property should it be found necessary. Residents in these low lying areas will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to the issuance of any evacuation orders.
Residents are reminded to stay clear of fast-flowing rivers and potentially unstable riverbanks during the high-streamflow period.
Closures (For your safety, avoid closure areas)
- June 14 – Langley Rowing and Paddling Centre Dock (west of Jacob Haldi Bridge)
- June 13 – Marina Park pathway fronting the Fraser River
- June 13 – The Fort to Fort trail between the Salmon River pump station and Allard Crescent
- June 13 – Trans Canada Trail south of Allard Crescent on 208 Street
- June 10 – Marina Park boat launch
Openings (From recent closures – use caution when using these areas as water can rise quickly)
- None to report at this time.
The Township has a comprehensive Flood Response Plan that has been updated based on prior years’ experiences, and includes regular dyke inspections and monitoring of the water levels provided by federal and provincial agencies.
The Township of Langley’s Flood Response Plan considers the readings at the Mission Gauge to determine the threat of flooding and action that should be taken by those potentially impacted.
Residents in the floodplain are reminded to have a plan in place which includes arranging to stay with family or friends, having emergency kits packed with clothes, medication and other necessities, ensuring a meeting place has been established if families are not together if an evacuation is ordered, and making provision for pets and livestock.
- Know the risks: The Fraser River spring freshet results from snow melt in the Fraser River watershed. The river generally starts rising near the end of May and continues until mid-July. The Township strongly encourages property owners in the floodplain to consider the consequences of a flood happening on their own property, and to address any issues ahead of time.
- Confirm your plan: In the event of an emergency, residents may be advised by the Township to evacuate their homes. Have a plan on where to go, what to take, and how to keep in touch with loved ones while you are away.
- Create an emergency kit: Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. By gathering a few basic supplies ahead of time, you will not be as severely affected if your tap water or electricity is cut off. Visit getprepared.gc.ca for a complete list of what to include in your emergency kit.
Visit tol.ca/floodresponse for more information.
Meantime, more than a dozen properties in Abbotsford are also being told to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.
An Evacuation Alert has been issued by the City of Abbotsford Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). Due to the potential dangerto life and health, the City of Abbotsford hasissued an Evacuation Alert for the following addresses in the Glen Valley area. (see attached map). 27606, 27612, 27730, 27790, 27818, 27826, 27868, 27898, 28162, 28272, 28388, 28412, 28960, 29188, 28226, 28266, 28292, 29464, 29530 & 29670. An Evacuation Alert has been issued to prepare to evacuate your premises or property should it be found necessary. Residentswillbe given asmuch advance notice as possible priorto evacuation;
An Evacuation Alert has been issued to prepare you to evacuate your premises or property should it be found necessary. Residentswillbe given asmuch advance notice as possible priorto evacuation; however, youmay receive limited notice due to changing conditions. WHATYOU SHOULDDO: Locate all familymembers and designate ameeting area outside the evacuation area, should an Evacuation Orderbe calledwhile separated. Pack essential itemssuch as government-issued ID, medications, eyeglasses,valuablepapers (e.g. insurance, credit, and mortgage information), immediate care needs for dependents and, if time and space permits, keepsakes forquick departure. Prepare to move disabled persons, children and/orneighbors, if assistance is needed. Prepare to take pets with you and move livestock to a safe area (if possible). Arrange transportation and accommodation for all members of the residence, if possible. Remain vigilant of your surroundings and call 911 for emergency assistance if conditions worsen. Wait for an Evacuation Order to be issued before evacuating. Monitor www.abbotsford.ca , @abbypolicedept on Twitter or Facebook for information on evacuation orders and location of Reception Centers. Further information will be issued will be provided as required