High Streamflow Advisory in effect as Yellow Rainfall Warning continues

The City of Maple Ridge is urging residents, particularly those in flood-prone and low-lying areas, to take precautions as heavy rain continues. The BC River Forecast Centre has expanded its High Streamflow Advisory to include Maple Ridge. River and creek levels are rising or may rise quickly. Major flooding is not expected at this time, but minor flooding is possible in low-lying areas, and fast-moving water can be dangerous. Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Yellow Rainfall Warning remains in effect, with total rainfall of up to 80 mm expected.

The City is monitoring conditions and preparing for the weather. It is using gauges and sensors in its FlowWorks network to track water levels in coordination with BC Hydro and provincial and federal agencies. The City is also clearing catch basins and culverts, sweeping streets and flushing storm mains to help water flow during heavy rain. Public education and preparedness plans are in place, and response resources are on standby.

Filled sandbags are available to residents in flood-prone areas at the City’s Operations Centre, 23925 Dewdney Trunk Road. The City encourages residents to act early to protect homes and businesses. Sandbags can help divert water from buildings, garages and entrances, reducing the risk of flood damage. Residents are asked to take only what they need; supplies will be replenished as required.

Residents should clear leaves and debris from gutters, catch basins and storm drains near their homes. Do not walk, cycle or drive through flooded areas. Stay well back from rivers and creeks during and after stormy conditions: banks can be unstable, and water levels can change quickly. Keep pets leashed and supervise small children closely near fast-moving water. Secure outdoor furniture, equipment and loose items, and move valuables out of basements or other low-lying areas where possible. Check on neighbours who may need help.

Do not drive through flooded roads or road closures. Driving through water can damage nearby properties and poses serious safety risks. Follow all barricades and closures around roads, riverside parks and trails.

For pets, horses and livestock, plan ahead to move animals to higher ground or another safe location if needed. Ensure they have access to food, water and transportation. Do not leave animals in low-lying or flood-prone areas.

Report flooding, blocked drains, debris or other hazards at MapleRidge.ca/Report or by calling 604-463-9581. Never touch or approach a downed, damaged or low-hanging power line. It may still be live even if it is not sparking or making a sound. Stay at least 10 metres away—about the length of a city bus—and call 911 immediately. For power outages, call 1-800-BCHYDRO or visit BCHydro.com/Outages.

BC Hydro closely manages water levels at Alouette Lake Reservoir and may adjust releases as conditions change. During heavy or prolonged rainfall, inflows can rise quickly. If BC Hydro needs to release water to manage reservoir levels safely, it will notify local governments and stakeholders through a spill notice or flood alert. The City is in contact with BC Hydro and will share updates with residents if either is issued. Residents can also call BC Hydro’s water level information line at 604-462-5409.

Residents can sign up for City alerts at MapleRidge.ca/Alert and provincial alerts at Alertable.ca. Information about floodplain maps and preparedness is available at MapleRidge.ca/Flood. Residents can pre-register for Emergency Support Services at https://era-evacuees.embc.gov.bc.ca/registration-method. Weather updates are available at weather.gc.ca and on the Government of Canada’s colour-coded weather alerts page. River conditions are posted at bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/warnings. For more information, contact EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca.