Emergency Management Minister Kelly Greene posted a photo online after touring flood-damaged neighbourhoods in Abbotsford. CTV
Some residents in Abbotsford received relief on Sunday. Officials lifted evacuation alerts and downgraded several orders. Many families returned home. Authorities warned them to stay ready. Weather forecasts show more heavy rain ahead. Flooding and landslides remain possible across the South Coast.
Abbotsford Updates Evacuation Status
The city downgraded evacuation orders for 248 properties in Sumas Prairie. Residents may return but must stay alert. Officials kept evacuation orders for 77 properties. Another 408 properties remain on alert. City crews continue to watch river levels, dikes, and roads closely.
Mayor Ross Siemens said the city felt some relief. Floodwaters have started to drop. Water still flows from the Nooksack River in Washington. The flow continues to decrease. Fire Chief Erick Peterson said most assessed homes appear safe.
Highways Close Ahead of Heavy Rain
Officials announced several highway closures on Sunday. Highway 99 between Mount Currie and Lillooet will close at 8 p.m. Officials expect storm impacts. Highway 1 between Hope and Lytton will close at 10 p.m. Authorities cited risks of rockfall, debris, and washouts. Officials expect both highways to reopen Monday.
Highway 1 between Chilliwack and Hope reopened Sunday afternoon. Crews reduced speeds to 50 kilometres per hour. Oversized loads remain restricted. Crews continue cleanup work and barrier construction.
Travel Warnings Issued Provincewide
Provincial officials warned of major travel disruptions. Heavy rain will reach the South Coast Sunday night. The storm could last into Monday. Officials said highways may close without warning.
Emergency Management Minister Kelly Greene addressed the risks. She said, “More stormy weather and more rain are on the way, that means increased flood and landlslide risk.” She added, “We aren’t through this yet.”
Flood and Rain Warnings Expand
Weather warnings expanded across the Fraser Valley. Authorities upgraded rainfall warnings for Abbotsford and Chilliwack to orange. Officials warned of possible road closures and landslides. They urged drivers to avoid flooded roads.
The River Forecast Centre issued a flood warning for the Chilliwack River. Water levels have passed safe limits. Officials expect high streamflow through Tuesday. A flood warning remains for the Sumas River. Flood watches cover several Fraser River tributaries.
Provincial Leaders Call Out Federal Response
Minister Greene criticized the federal response. She said support often comes too late. She said, “We can’t do it alone.” She added that federal action remains missing. Provincial ministers shared concerns during a Sunday briefing.
Pemberton and Sea to Sky Prepare
Officials placed Airport Road properties in Pemberton under evacuation alert. The village urged residents to use sandbags. The area sits under a flood watch. Authorities continue monitoring rainfall closely.
Looking Ahead
Officials urge residents to follow alerts and travel advisories. Crews remain on standby across the province. Weather conditions may worsen overnight. Authorities stress caution and preparedness.
