Updated story
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) has rescinded the Evacuation Alert for all communities along the Lardeau River, Duncan River, and surrounding tributaries stretching from the northern end of Kootenay Lake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.
Original story
An evacuation alert has been issued for communities along the Lardeau River, Duncan River and nearby tributaries as rising water levels and forecast rainfall increase the risk of flooding.
The alert covers areas from the north end of Kootenay Lake to Trout Lake in Electoral Area D, including Cooper Creek, Meadow Creek, Marblehead and Poplar Creek.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) said weather forecasts and hydrologist assessments indicate the Lardeau River could overflow its banks, causing high water in adjacent floodplain areas.
No evacuation is required at this time. However, residents and visitors are being urged to stay alert and be prepared to leave on short notice if conditions worsen.
“The key to emergency preparedness is knowing the risks and having a plan,” the RDCK said.
Officials are encouraging residents to prepare emergency kits, identify evacuation meeting locations and make arrangements for pets and livestock should an evacuation order become necessary.
The B.C. River Forecast Centre issued a flood watch for the West Kootenay region on May 28, covering the entire RDCK, including tributaries near Trout Lake, the Lardeau River, Kaslo, Nakusp and Nelson.
According to the RDCK, warmer temperatures have accelerated snowmelt and increased river levels throughout the region. Environment Canada is also forecasting significant rainfall through Monday.
High river flows are expected to continue into early next week. The RDCK said some weather models indicate the potential for flooding across parts of the Kootenays if heavier precipitation develops.
Residents are being warned to avoid rivers and riverbanks, which may be unstable, and never drive through floodwaters because strong currents and hidden hazards can be life-threatening.
The RDCK is also asking residents to report erosion, landslides or flooding to the Provincial Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-800-663-3456.
Sandbags and sand are available at designated locations listed on the RDCK website. Residents must bring their own shovels to fill bags.
The district is also encouraging people to sign up for emergency notifications through Voyent Alert and to review evacuation and preparedness information available at www.rdck.ca/eocinfo.
People who may require assistance meeting basic needs during an evacuation can create a profile through the province’s Emergency Support Services program at ess.gov.bc.ca.
Residents who are unable to evacuate independently are asked to contact the Emergency Operations Centre public inquiry line at 250-352-7701.
