Robson Square in Vancouver on Monday, as rain continued to fall and a rainfall warning remained in effect for the Metro Vancouver area. The Canadian Press
Heavy rain from an atmospheric river system pushed river levels higher across British Columbia’s south coast, prompting evacuation orders and alerts in several areas. Officials say the flooding should ease quickly once the rain ends.
The Regional District of Nanaimo confirmed that officials ordered one property to evacuate and placed 58 others on alert. The concern centres on the Englishman River near Parksville, about 140 kilometres northwest of Victoria.
Englishman River Near Flood Levels
The River Forecast Centre reported that the Englishman River has reached or passed flood stage in some areas. Officials expect river flows to approach or exceed levels typically seen every five to 10 years.
The centre warned residents about possible road damage, landslides, flooding in low-lying areas, and dangerous fast-moving water. Authorities placed the rest of Vancouver Island under a flood watch as water levels continued to rise.
Despite the warnings, officials stressed that the situation should improve soon.
“It’s difficult to forecast, but it also is one of those things that is often not as long lived,” said David Campbell, head of the River Forecast Centre.
Rain Expected to End Soon
Campbell said the heavy rain should taper off by Monday evening.
“So, I think once we get through the high flows that we’re experiencing right now, tomorrow and the rest of the week should be much better. And I suspect by tomorrow, we’ll be pulling down all of the flood warnings, flood watches and advisories that we have in place,” said Campbell.
Emergency crews continue to monitor river levels closely until conditions stabilize.
Evacuation Orders Adjusted in Cowichan Region
Emergency Management Cowichan ordered residents of 10 properties near the Chemainus Bridge area to leave their homes early Monday. Later in the day, officials lifted the evacuation order after determining that the immediate danger had passed.
The agency said road conditions remained a concern, with Chemainus Road still closed. The area sits about 71 kilometres north of Victoria.
Widespread Rainfall Warnings
Rainfall warnings covered large sections of the province late Monday. The warnings included Vancouver Island’s west coast and inland regions, Metro Vancouver, Howe Sound, the Fraser Valley, Highway 3 from Hope to Princeton, and the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt.
Forecasts predicted up to 200 millimetres of rain in the Howe Sound area. Port Mellon recorded more than 73 millimetres on Sunday alone. Parts of Metro Vancouver north of the Fraser River could see as much as 150 millimetres.
Coastal areas of Vancouver Island could receive up to 250 millimetres of rain, while inland sections may see up to 140 millimetres by the end of Monday.
Fraser Valley Remains on Alert
Authorities also issued an evacuation alert Sunday for parts of the Fraser Valley. Officials asked residents near the Chilliwack River to prepare for possible evacuation due to rising water levels.
Emergency officials continue to urge residents to stay informed and follow local advisories as conditions change.
