Warmer spring weather brings higher streamflows in the Fraser River, and Coquitlam is prepared for possible flooding.
COQUITLAM, B.C., June 4, 2021 – Warmer spring weather brings higher streamflows in the Fraser River, and Coquitlam is prepared for possible flooding.
Streamflows at the Lower Fraser River are expected to peak over the weekend, but no major flooding is expected. The public is asked to use caution around waterways and follow instructions on posted signage.
Current Situation
River levels are monitored by the provincial River Forecast Centre, which predicts a flow of 10,315 cms in Hope by Sunday, June 6, which will equate to an approximate level of 2.6 – 2.8 meters at the Fraser River Port Mann gauge near Coquitlam. The river level is predicted to begin dropping in the days after June 6, and the current weather forecast does not include extreme heat or heavy rain events.
Although monitoring continues, the risk of flooding this spring is currently considered low. This could change; however, depending on impacts of weather extremes such as heat or heavy rain in the coming weeks.
What the City is Doing
The City of Coquitlam’s Public Works team has been preparing for the freshet over the past several weeks, including:
- Performing regular dike inspections;
- Ensuring an adequate stock of sandbags, and securing rental pumps in the event that they are required; and
- Installing signage along United Boulevard as well as near the entrance to Maquabeak Park warning the public of the hazards around the river while the levels are high.
Coquitlam’s flood response plan directs both flood preparations and how the City will respond if river levels reach more than three to four metres and flooding occurs.
About the Freshet
The recent winter season was relatively mild in B.C., however, some areas of the province received considerably above normal precipitation in the form of accumulated snowpack, located within the catchment of the Lower Fraser River. The recent hot weather that much of the province has been experiencing lately has increased flows in the Lower Fraser River, with more significant increases to come in the upcoming days.
Maps of Coquitlam’s floodplains and information to help the public prepare are posted at www.coquitlam.ca/floodprep.
Be Prepared for Potential Flooding
Property owners are responsible for their own flood preparations, and Coquitlam residents and businesses in low-lying areas near the Coquitlam, Pitt and Fraser Rivers are encouraged to be prepared year-round for potential flooding.
If flooding appears likely, the City will contact residents and business owners in areas that may be affected by floods to inform them about potential flooding, the City’s activities and how they can reduce the impact of flooding on their property.
If flooding occurs, even properties that are not in the floodplain may be affected by road closures or loss of power or City services. For information and floodplain maps, visit www.coquitlam.ca/floodprep.
Media contact:
Brad Lofgren
Director Public Works
604-927-6236
blofgren@coquitlam.ca