Authorities in British Columbia are closing some roads as projected heavy rains and warming weather increase the risk of flooding in parts of the province.
The Department of Transportation says Highway 1 between Leaton and Spence Bridge, which was damaged in last year’s laundering, was closed yesterday as a precautionary measure and a geotechnical assessment has been ordered.
Another section of the same highway near Salmon Arm, British Columbia, between Tappen Beach Road and 65 Avenue, is reduced to alternating traffic in one lane due to mud debris.
Cold and rainy weather has delayed spring thaws by about a month, and there are fears that a few days with above-average temperatures could lead to rapid melting of heavy snow and clog some waterways.
The River Forecasting Center says current modeling suggests possible flooding this weekend, with parts of the Okanagan and Border regions being among the worst affected by rainfall.
Emergency officials have warned residents in several communities with evacuation warnings, saying they should be prepared to leave if the risk of flooding increases.
They cover areas in Coalmont and Tulameen northwest of Princeton, Smithers and along the River Skeena north of Terrace.
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