Heavy rains and high streamflow are in the cards for Maple Ridge during the next several days.
What’s become known as an atmospheric river will take aim at the South Coast this weekend, confirmed Environment Canada.
The prolonged storm system is forecast to hit today (Saturday), starting with light rain.
The City of Maple Ridge issued its advisory, based on an Environment Canada alert.
The alert predicts long episodes of rain, at times heavy, with expectations that 75 to 125 millimetres will fall – potentially more against the mountains.
The main brunt of this atmospheric river is perdicted to arrive on Sunday, bringing rain, heavy at times. This heavy rain is expected to continue for 36 to 48 hours – into Monday – with the heavier rain expected to ease by Monday night.
Runoff from rainfall and snowmelt is expected to lead to high streamflow’s from Sunday through next week.
“Localized flooding, fast-rising river levels, washouts, and hazardous driving conditions are likely,” the city stated in their notice.
“A high streamflow advisory has been issued by the B.C. River forecast Centre and is in effect for Maple Ridge. City crews are inspecting and preparing city infrastructure like drainage systems, culverts, and pump stations, monitoring conditions closely and are ready to respond.”
What to do before the event starts:
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters and catch basins near your home to prevent localized flooding
- Pre-Register for Provincial Emergency Support Services at: ESS.gov.bc.ca
- Take some time to review your home emergency plan and supplies
- Make plans to stay with friends or family outside known floodplains in case of evacuation
- Connect with neighbours or vulnerable residents to ensure they are aware and prepared
- City staff have prepared sandbags that will be made available if needed
- Residents living in flood prone areas, who require sandbags, are advised to contact the City operations team at Operations@MapleRidge.ca or call 604-463-9581
How to stay safe during the event:
- Be careful in hazardous road and travel conditions. Drive carefully and give yourself more time to travel
- Do not walk, cycle, or drive through flooded areas
- Be cautious near rivers & trails, keep children close and keep pets on leash
- Stay clear of fast-flowing rivers, creeks and potentially unstable riverbanks
- Check on neighbours or vulnerable residents who may need assistance
- Stay up to date on local weather at: weather.gc.ca
- Report downed trees, road debris or blocked storm drains on city property at MapleRidge.ca/Report or call, 604-463-9581
- Stay at least 10 metres away from downed power lines and call BC Hydro at 1-800-224-9376
For more tips on how to be flood ready, monitor river levels or learn for anyone who live in an area prone to flooding, they are encouraged to visit: MapleRidge.ca/Flood
Be Prepared for emergencies of all kinds
Residents are reminded to stay prepared and take precautions to keep families, animals and neighbourhoods safe:
- Know the Risks – View flood maps and preparedness info at MapleRidge.ca/Flood
- Make a Plan – Create a family emergency plan, including arrangements for pets, farms and livestock
- Gather Supplies – Ensure you have enough food, water, and essentials to last 72 hours to one week.
Stay informed and ready
- Download the Alert Maple Ridge app for emergency notifications: MapleRidge.ca/Alert
- Download Alertable, a national emergency notification tool used by many Government agencies, to send real-time public safety alerts and advisories
- Learn more about flood preparedness and emergency planning: MapleRidge.ca/Flood