June 3 - 2021 Freshet Update

PRESS RELEASE

June 3, 2021

Agassiz, British Columbia – According to the BC River Forecast Centre, the Fraser River is nearing its expected peak window for snowmelt driven flooding, and the river is expected to rise over the coming days. By the weekend, modelling from the BC River Forecast Centre shows that the Fraser River could rise significantly. At this time, the forecasted flow is comparable to levels in 2020 and 2018, with maximum levels like those seen in 2012.

If these forecasted numbers occur, this may cause concern in areas outside of the District’s dike system in Harrison Mills. While significant overbank spilling from the Fraser River is not expected at this time, residents outside the dike system should remain vigilant and watch for future updates.

The river levels in 2012 also caused the local groundwater to rise, which may result in some water getting into basements or crawl spaces within the townsite. To minimize damage in the event this occurs, residents are encouraged to test sump pumps and move items off the basement floor.

Seepage or shallow ponding in agricultural fields located in close proximity to the District’s dikes and drainage network may occur and this is not unusual.

For your safety, please exercise extreme caution around fast-moving water. The District may require the closure to the public dike access and some road networks in key areas to ensure the structure and stability of the infrastructure can be maintained

If you do not already have an emergency plan in place for your household, now is an excellent time to create one. More information on emergency planning is available at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/preparedbc/make-your-plan.

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