Periods of rainfall in northern B.C. has caused several washouts and flooding in rivers, including more than 45 mm in the last 48 hours.
As a result, higher-than-normal water levels are making their way towards Prince George, forcing the B.C. River Forecast Centre to put a high streamflow advisory on the Fraser River’s upstream from the city.
The service says this tributary is expected to rise today (June 15) and tomorrow (June 16), but could stay below high-flow levels compared to what was issued in April.
Roughly 80 homes in the southwest area of Prince George were put on evacuation alert, 40 of which were additionally given an order to leave, after the Chilako River flooded nearby roads thanks to heavy rainfall.
Up to 90 mm of rain is expected to fall in the northern Rockies around Fort Nelson today, and could extend into the Liard River’s tributaries.
Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for the B.C. Peace River region, which could also bring in more than 20 mm by the end of the day.
Residents are being asked to stay clear of the Upper Fraser River and other fast-flowing tributaries in the region as rising levels could cause unstable embankments.
More information can be available on the B.C. River Forecast Centre’s website.
