Press Releases

Chilliwack, BC: The City of Chilliwack’s annual preparations for spring freshet are well underway. Every year, City staff undertake a number of activities to prepare for freshet, in accordance with the City’s Flood Response Plans.

As part of the annual program, crews have been mowing the dikes and completing regular dike inspections. City staff also regularly inspect the City’s pumps, floodboxes, and flapgates; review the City’s available equipment and materials; and review and update the Fraser River Flood Response Plan as needed.

“As our province continues to feel the impacts of last November’s storms, people are understandably more focused on freshet this year,” said Mayor Popove. “I would like to assure our residents that the City’s annual preparations are underway, our dikes are inspected regularly, and we are prepared for this spring.”

Following the City’s Flood Response Plans for the Fraser and Vedder Rivers, staff continue to monitor provincial river forecasts, including 10-day flow and water level forecasts, and will take further action as necessary to keep the public safe.

“The City is prepared for freshet, and now is a great time for residents to make sure they are prepared, too,” said Mayor Popove. “Reviewing your emergency plan with your household and knowing where to find credible information now can really help reduce some of the stress if there is an emergency later.”

Information about how to create an emergency plan, emergency kit, and grab-and-go bags is available on the City’s website at chilliwack.com/prepared or preparedbc.ca. For more information about flood protection in Chilliwack, visit chilliwack.com/FloodProtection.