Metro Vancouver is urging residents on Barnston Island near Surrey to prepare for a potential evacuation order over the long weekend due to possible flooding.
About 150 people live on the island, located on the Fraser River between Surrey and Pitt Meadows.
Metro Vancouver, which issued an evacuation alert Thursday, says residents should be prepared to leave on short notice.
A local state of emergency has been declared, restricting access to the island, while Barnston Island Regional Park is also closed.
Metro Vancouver, which is responsible for emergency management in the area, says it has established a command post on site to coordinate any potential evacuation. Authorities are also monitoring river levels, patrolling levees and placing sandbags.
Flood response information has been shared with the Katzie First Nation, which has a reserve on the small island.
Access to Barnston Island is restricted to residents, businesses and those with family connections following a flood warning issued Thursday, June 30, 2022. (Ben Nelms/CBC)
The British Columbia River Prediction Centre, Environment Canada and British Columbia Emergency Management warned that snowmelt and rainfall could cause river flows to increase over the next few days.
Metro Vancouver has issued the following advisories for Islanders:
- Pack essentials, medicine, glasses, valuables, immediate care needs and pets and get ready to go fast.
- Know the location of all household members and designate a meeting place if they are separated during a potential evacuation.
- Be prepared to evacuate children, the elderly, and the disabled.
- Begin moving pets and livestock to a safe area immediately.
- Arrange accommodation.
- If time permits, take steps to prepare for property damage.
Add Comment