News Release - November 22, 2017

News Release - November 22, 2017

Flood Risks Downgraded in the RDN

Effective immediately, the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) is deactivating it's Level 1 Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). While a High Streamflow Advisory remains in effect for the Englishman River and other streams north of Parksville, updated weather forecasts are now predicting far less rain than previously indicated, and additional localized flooding is not expected such that an EOC needs to remain activated at this time.

The EOC was activated at Level 1 to support response to eight homes within the French Creek, Qualicum Bay and Coombs areas that had experienced flooding earlier this week with rivers overflowing their banks or flooding from ground water runoff. The RDN will continue to assist those properties where possible, and monitoring weather, river levels and tidal activity in the areas prone to seasonal flooding.

As it is the beginning of the typically wet fall/winter season, residents are recommended to prepare early if residing in an area prone to flooding, and to keep sandbags in place until spring if in use. Sandbags and sand are available at both the Coombs/Hilliers and Dashwood Volunteer Fire Halls if needed by local residents for flood prevention.

"Thank you to those that assisted others with flood preparations and clean up as needed," said Chair Veenhof. "Please continue to help your neighbours, friends, family and community as needed in times of emergency. Also sharing information in person and online about current situations is helpful to bring greater awareness to our residents."

RDN staff will provide updates on social media and our website as appropriate. More general information can be seen on our website on how to properly fill and place sandbags at www.rdn.bc.ca/flooding.

Residents are reminded to call 911 for any life threatening emergency and can report non-life threatening flooding concerns to the RDN at 778-762-3553.

~~ 30 ~~

Contact:

Jon Wilson
Manager, Emergency Services
Regional District of Nanaimo
250-713-2057
jwilson [at] rdn.bc.ca (jwilson[at]rdn[dot]bc[dot]ca )