Monday, November 15, 2021
Update 1:30 pm: The Trans-Canada Highway has opened between Sicamous and Revelstoke. It remains closed near Golden.
Drive BC is reporting traffic on Highway 97A in both directions near Sicamous is being affected by flooding between Graham Road and Mervyn Road. There is single-lane alternating traffic. Expect delays.
Driving conditions are constantly changing, please drive with care and watch for debris on roadways.
Original Post:
Rainfall and wind warnings are in place for much of the Shuswap and Columbia areas at this time, with the storm projected to pass through by early tomorrow morning. Tuesday will see the rain leveling off, however, there will be a drop in temperature.
At this time, the Shuswap Emergency Program (SEP) area has not experienced any known significant flooding, landslide or debris-flow events, other than a rock fall near Three Valley Gap that has resulted in the Trans-Canada Highway closure.
Clean-up efforts of that section of Highway 1 should begin later today.
Residents being asked to avoid travel and use caution, as water pooling on roads can be a driving hazard.
Please refer to Drive BC for the latest information.
Be aware. Be ready.
It is important to be prepared for flooding or landslides, especially in areas previously affected by wildfires.
Significant rainfall, like we have been experiencing, can increase hazards.
Residents should:
- Stay informed and sign up for the Alertable program, so you can be notified of emergency information
- Be ready with emergency supplies at home and in your car
- Watch for warning signs such as an increase in the height and intensity of water flows, land slippage, debris in creeks, colour changes in water or leaning trees
- Listen for unusual sounds like tree trunks cracking or boulders knocking together
- Know that the banks of rivers and streams may be unstable and dangerous. Stay away and be sure to keep children and pets out of those areas
- Report any culverts that appear to be obstructed with debris to the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
To report a flooding incident involving immediate danger to life please call 911. Report all other flooding incidents to the 24/7 Provincial Emergency Reporting Line at 800-663-3456.
