British Columbia (B.C.) has issued flood warnings and watches after a landslide forced evacuations in the province. The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, causing significant damage and posing a threat to nearby communities.
According to officials, the landslide occurred in the community of Old Fort, located in the Peace River Regional District. The landslide, which was triggered by heavy rainfall, has resulted in the evacuation of approximately 150 residents from the area.
The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a flood warning for the Peace River, as well as a flood watch for the Moberly River and tributaries. The warning and watch are in effect until further notice.
The landslide has also caused damage to the Old Fort Road, which is the only access route for residents in the area. As a result, the road has been closed and residents have been advised to stay away from the area until further notice.
The B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has deployed crews to assess the damage and begin repairs on the road. However, due to the ongoing threat of further landslides, the repairs may take some time to complete.
In the meantime, the province has set up an emergency reception centre at the North Peace Arena in Fort St. John for those who have been displaced by the landslide. The centre will provide temporary shelter, food, and other necessary resources for affected residents.
The B.C. government has also activated its Disaster Financial Assistance program to provide financial support to those who have been impacted by the landslide. This program will help cover the costs of essential items such as food, clothing, and shelter for those who have been displaced.
Residents in the affected area are urged to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities. The province will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and the potential risks they pose to our communities. It is crucial for residents to have an emergency plan in place and to stay informed about potential hazards in their area.
As the situation in B.C. continues to develop, the safety and well-being of residents remain the top priority. The province will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and security of all those affected by this unfortunate event.
