Port Coquitlam, BC – October 15, 2026… The City of Port Coquitlam is taking proactive steps to strengthen local flood protection and storm preparedness in advance of the 2025 storm season. Building on lessons from the major storm event of October 2024, City crews have expanded infrastructure capacity, upgraded critical systems, and enhanced community-level resilience measures across key watersheds.
Following the 2024 storm, which impacted areas such as Lombardy Drive, Lincoln Avenue, Richmond Place and Patricia Avenue, the City conducted a detailed review and implemented a number of system upgrades and preventative improvements to reduce future flood risks.
“Each year, we’re investing in the infrastructure and planning needed to ensure Port Coquitlam is ready for whatever comes our way,” said Mayor Brad West. “Our Public Works team has been working tirelessly to strengthen our flood protection network and protect our residents, homes, and local environment.”
Key actions undertaken for the 2025 season include:
- Updated the City’s Wet Weather Response Plan to reflect changing climate conditions and evolving storm patterns.
- Prepared 7,000 sandbags, heavy-duty pumps, and Tiger Dams ready for deployment to strategic locations.
- Upgraded drainage systems to Maple Creek, Hyde Creek, and south Port Coquitlam watershed systems, including ditching and dredging to improve conveyance and increase capacity and retention.
- Continued investment in pump station improvements, including design work for the Cedar Ditch Pump Station, with constructions scheduled to begin in 2026.
- Carried out targeted maintenance, including catch basin cleaning, culvert inlet and outlet clearing, and flushing of storm mains to ensure efficient water flow during heavy rainfall.
Flood mitigation remains a key component of the City’s infrastructure strategy. Through capital investments, integrated stormwater management planning, and delivery of maintenance programs, Port Coquitlam continues to protect public safety while supporting sustainable growth and environmental stewardship.
“Storms are becoming more intense and unpredictable,” said Cllr. Darrell Penner, council designate for public works and transportation. “We’ve strengthened our systems to ensure they are ready to respond quickly and effectively, minimizing disruption to residents and protecting our infrastructure.”
Emergency preparedness resources are available at portcoquitlam.ca/ep, including the Are You Prepared? guide with steps to take before, during, and after emergencies such as storms, earthquakes, and floods. Printed copies are available at City facilities. Additional tools include a business preparedness toolkit and free community courses offered throughout the year.
Download Alertable
Residents are encouraged to download Alertable to receive City emergency alerts for hazards such as fires, floods, earthquakes, and storms. Get the free app from the App Store, Google Play, or portcoquitlam.ca/alertable.
Users can customize notifications by type, severity, and sound. Critical alerts for large-scale emergencies and disasters—such as evacuation alerts and orders—are sent to all users.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take simple steps to protect their properties, including keeping drains clear and preparing sandbags where needed. Information on how to prepare for heavy rain and flooding is available at portcoquitlam.ca/flood.
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