The City of Terrace activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) this afternoon due to the current flood risk caused by rising Skeena River levels. City staff will be monitoring areas prone to flooding over the next several days.
The River Forecast Centre’s CLEVER modelling now shows water levels could reach volumes likely to occur only once in a 100-year period by Sunday, according to the latest data on the Skeena River at Usk.
The city is working on sandbag availability for residents who may be affected by rising water levels.
“It is important to note that opening the EOC does not mean a declaration of a local state of emergency,” city communications official Kate Lautens said.
But she said it does prepare the city in the event that one is required.
“Members of the public are strongly reminded not to drive through areas near the river that may be experiencing rising waters nearby if they are not residents of the area,” Lautens said.
“A rising river is very dangerous—please stay safe and do not approach the riverbank.”
Lautens said Ferry Island will be closed to both day users and overnight camping as of 11 am on June 3 or sooner if needed as a cautionary step.
The campsite operator is contacting those with weekend reservations directly. Fisherman’s Memorial Park boat launch will also be closed to the public as of Friday June 3 or sooner, depending on changing conditions.
Lautens said if there is an emergency, crews need to be able to access the area and unnecessary traffic would hamper their ability to do so.
More information on acquiring sandbags and a situation update are expected from the city tomorrow.
For more information and updates you can visit the City of Terrace website, Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Do you have a comment about this story? email:
michael.willcock@terracestandard.com