ABBOTSFORD, B.C. — Floodwaters that surged into Abbotsford this week are beginning to recede; however, Environment Canada has issued warnings for additional rain in the already saturated Fraser Valley region. The forecast suggests that while the rainfall is expected to lessen over the course of the day, another weather system is anticipated to arrive tonight.
The weather office has noted that this incoming system will bring what it describes as a “potentially significant push of moisture” starting Monday and extending into the early part of next week. As the saturating rains continue, concerns over landslides have risen due to the destabilization of slopes in the area.
Floodwaters from the Nooksack River in Washington state, which experienced overflow on Wednesday, have continued to spill across the border into Canada as of Friday. Fortunately, the City of Abbotsford has reported that these waters have reached their peak levels and are now gradually decreasing. In response to the flooding, the city has opened the floodgates at the Barrowtown pump station to direct excess water from the Sumas River into the Fraser River.
Emergency Management Minister Kelly Greene has confirmed that around 450 properties in British Columbia have been evacuated, primarily affecting the Abbotsford area, with an additional 1,700 properties currently on evacuation alert. The situation has led to significant disruptions, including the inundation of fields and the closure of major routes like Highway 1 and the Sumas border crossing. This flooding scenario echoes similar incidents from 2021, which were likewise triggered by the overflow from the Nooksack River.
The Canadian Press has reported these developments, highlighting the ongoing impact of recent weather patterns on the local communities. The threat of further rain raises concerns about the potential for additional flooding and landslides, leaving residents in a precarious situation as they navigate the aftermath of extensive water damage.
As Abbotsford works to manage the consequences of this flooding event, community and emergency services remain on high alert to protect residents and properties from any forthcoming severe weather events. The situation remains fluid, and authorities are closely monitoring conditions to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected.
