Port Coquitlam, BC – OCTOBER 22, 2024… Following the recent flooding event on Saturday, October 19, 2024, the City has conducted an initial assessment to evaluate damage and prioritize recovery efforts. The flooding was caused by an intense atmospheric river system, increased flows from the Coquitlam River in combination with high tides which stopped water from receding, overwhelming local drainage systems. The City recorded nearly 185mm of rainfall, with the Burke Mountain watershed seeing an unprecedented 266mm—significantly above forecasted amounts.
“The unprecedented rainfall we experienced highlights the importance of our proactive measures. By issuing timely alerts and engaging with our residents, we aimed to keep everyone informed and prepared for potential flooding,” said Mayor Brad West “This event serves as a reminder that continuous investment in our infrastructure and effective communication are vital to keep our residents safe.”
In preparation for the storm, the City took proactive measures to mitigate flood risks, including clearing drainage systems, checking dikes and pumps, lowering set points at pump stations, fueling backup generators, and stockpiling sandbags. Public Works staff worked non-stop, establishing three sandbag stations and, in coordination with Fire crews, deploying hundreds of sandbags and helping vulnerable residents. Staff and contractors were on standby for 24/7 response. Public service announcements were shared to inform residents of potential flooding.
High tides significantly contributed to the flooding by restricting water outflow from drainage systems. This led to water backing up into low-lying areas, particularly affecting the Cedar Drainage area and Coast Meridian Road.
An Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) was activated on October 19 at 9:45 a.m. to coordinate a multi-department response until 8:00 a.m. the following day.
In total, the City prioritized over 140 calls and emails regarding flooding, ensuring urgent needs were addressed promptly. This included 40 calls related to residential flooding in the Northeast quadrant, 76 calls concerning road flooding, 30 calls regarding rising creeks, park flooding, and other drainage issues, along with 27 fire-related calls. Emergency Support Services (ESS) assisted three families, providing essential 72-hour support.
Flood mitigation remains a top priority as the City continues to enhance its infrastructure to prepare for extreme weather events. Recent upgrades include the replacement of the Fremont/Handley culvert and upgrades to the sanitary sewer and storm mains on Wellington Avenue. The recently completed Burns Road culvert, critical for east Port Coquitlam’s drainage, was replaced in 2022, with the new 2,100mm diameter culvert designed to manage heavier rainfall and creek flows while supporting fish passage and stormwater management.
Upcoming projects include a $10M Cedar Drainage Pump Station upgrade to improve flood protection and accommodate climate change impacts, with design and permitting underway and construction scheduled to begin in 2026 and completion expected by 2027. Additionally, the $14M Maple Creek Pump Station upgrade aims to enhance flood protection and fish passage, with construction set for 2025 and completion in 2026.
“Maintaining and upgrading flood protection measures is critical for Port Coquitlam as we adapt to changing climate conditions,” said Mayor Brad West “We appreciate the resilience shown by our residents during this challenging event and their efforts to support one another.”
The City continues to seek provincial and federal grants to support these infrastructure improvements alongside significant municipal investment. Ongoing project details are available at portcoquitlam.ca/capitalprojects.
Impacted Residents
Short-term emergency supports are available to residents who have experienced significant consequences/impacts due to the storm and are unable to stay in their home.
Please contact the Port Coquitlam Emergency Preparedness Office at [email protected], and assistance will be provided through our Emergency Support Service programming.
Homeowners must check with their insurer to see if their policy will cover the damages related to flooding.
EmergencyInfoBC provides detailed information during provincial emergencies, sharing official response and recovery resources, as well as verified event information from trusted partners.
For more resources visit portcoquitlam.ca/flood.
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