The risk of flooding has increased significantly as recent warm temperatures are causing a rapid rise in water levels along the Fraser River, warns the BC River Forecast Centre.
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A high streamflow advisory was recently issued by the organization, which means that although major flooding is not yet expected to happen, there is a very real possibility that low-lying areas along the river may be flooded in the coming days.
In response, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are warning residents to stay clear of fast-flowing rivers, creeks, and potentially unstable riverbanks. People are also being asked to avoid doing recreational activities like fishing, swimming, boating, or hiking near high streamflow waterways.
A response plan is already being put in place in both cities, which includes daily monitoring of weather forecasts and river levels; patrolling, inspecting, and maintaining dikes and pump stations; preparing and disseminating flooding and flood preparedness information to the public; developing contingency plans; and updating the city’s evacuation plan.
An information sheet with details on flood preparedness has also been sent out to the 2,200 Maple Ridge properties in the Fraser River floodplain.
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If the risk of flooding becomes imminent, an alert will be sent out via the City of Maple Ridge’s city alert system and social media channels.
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