Flood Alerts Reduced Across Vancouver Island
The B.C. River Forecast Centre has lifted multiple flood warnings and watches throughout Vancouver Island and other areas, following a decrease in rainfall. However, persistent flooding in the Comox Valley has led authorities in Courtenay to close various parks and trails.
Officials downgraded the flood warning for the Somass River to a high streamflow advisory. Warnings and advisories for the Courtenay, Tsolum, Dove Creek, and Englishman rivers have been canceled entirely. Similar alerts previously in place for Haida Gwaii and the province’s south coast have also been terminated.
Park Closures in Courtenay Due to Flooding
The Comox Valley Regional Emergency Operations Centre announced closures of several parks and trails in Courtenay today, including Lewis Park, the Simms Park Inner Loop, Puntledge Park, and McPhee Meadows, all affected by floodwaters.
State of Local Emergency Declared
The regional district declared a state of local emergency on Friday for Comox Valley residents on Vancouver Island. Heavy rains triggered evacuations at a campground and 12 properties. This action followed initial flood warnings for Dove Creek and the Tsolum and Courtenay rivers, which have now concluded as water levels begin to recede.
