Heavy Rainfall Triggers Significant Landslide

Heavy rainfall wreaked havoc across Metro Vancouver this past Sunday, triggering a significant landslide in Port Coquitlam. The incident unfolded in the Citadel area, just a stone's throw away from a local townhouse complex, catching residents off guard.

Public Safety Measures

Local city officials are advising the public to steer clear of the affected area. Thankfully, they report no immediate safety threats to the community. The Ministry of Transportation has deployed teams to assess the damage and manage any concerns arising from the landslide.

Response from City Officials

Joshua Fredrick, the Director of Engineering & Public Works for Port Coquitlam, described the situation as a double landslide that occurred simultaneously. He stated, "The city is acting as a first responder. While these lands are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transportation, our priority is to ensure the safety of those around us."

Fredrick confirmed that the city's safety protocols had been fulfilled and that the Ministry would take over ongoing responses from this point forward.

Resident's Perspective

Wendy Marr, a nearby resident who witnessed the landslide from her kitchen, shared her thoughts on the incident, noting, "We all know that hillside is always a threat, but thankfully, it didn’t appear too severe since this was not a mudslide."

Impact of the Atmospheric River

This heavy rainfall was the result of an atmospheric river stretching through southern British Columbia over the weekend. Environment Canada reported widespread rainfall across the region, with Metro Vancouver seeing totals ranging from 54 to 68 millimeters from Saturday afternoon through Monday morning.

Notably, Agassiz recorded 68 millimeters, while Chilliwack's airport logged 54 millimeters. Port Mellon in Howe Sound received a staggering 86 millimeters, and Cape Beale Lighthouse on West Vancouver Island saw an unprecedented 134 millimeters of rain in the same timeframe.

Ongoing Weather Warnings

In light of these conditions, a rainfall warning remains in effect for the Fraser Valley, which includes Hope, with regional totals expected to climb to about 80 millimeters. However, a gradual easing of the rainfall is anticipated, with lighter showers expected on Monday afternoon and a tapering off by early Tuesday morning.

Conclusion

The meteorological phenomena raises concern not only for landslides but also for potential flooding as communities brace themselves against the backdrop of this relentless atmospheric river. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and to keep updated on weather forecasts and alerts. Stay safe, Port Coquitlam!