The BC River Forecast Centre has issued a High Streamflow Advisory for the lower Fraser River. This means river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, but no major flooding is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

The public is advised to stay clear of fast-flowing watercourses and potentially unstable riverbanks during the high-stream flow period.

Annually in May and June, British Columbia experiences a freshet. This occurs when accumulated snow at higher elevations begin to melt causing rivers to rise.

Currently the City of Port Coquitlam is monitoring the weather forecasts and river levels and proactively taking steps to prepare for the safety of residents and businesses should flooding occur.

The City’s response plan includes:

• Preparing and disseminating flooding and flood preparedness information to the public;
• Liaising with other government and utility organizations;
• Developing contingency plans;
• Patrolling and maintaining dikes and pump stations;
• Daily monitoring weather forecasts and river levels; and
• Updating the City’s evacuation plan as necessary.

A significant proportion of Port Coquitlam is in either the Fraser River or Pitt River flood plain. The City raised the dikes in the community in 2007.

A variety of flood preparedness resources, including flood plain maps, are available at www.portcoquitlam.ca/flood.

Follow the City’s social media channels for latest notices.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to develop an emergency preparedness plan to prepare for a potential event.

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MEDIA CONTACTS

Pardeep Purewal
Manager of Communications & Admin Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5335 Cel 604.218.0533
Email purewalp@portcoquitlam.ca