Pemberton Braces for Another Round of Flooding as Rain Continues to Pour

Residents in Pemberton, British Columbia, are preparing for another bout of heavy rain and potential flooding as a weather system of unseasonal warmth continues to deluge the region. Located about 150 kilometers north of Vancouver, Pemberton has already experienced significant flooding, prompting the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District to issue evacuation alerts for several properties in the area.

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Dusty McKinnon, a resident of Pemberton, compared driving through the floodwaters to crossing rivers in Costa Rica, as the water surged over the hood of his truck. The flooding has been caused by a series of atmospheric rivers, which are streams of warm Pacific air carrying moisture. These rivers have led to overflowing rivers and triggered flood warnings and advisories throughout the South Coast of British Columbia.

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The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District expanded the evacuation alert to include two additional properties in Pemberton, including a mobile home park. Residents have been asked to be ready to evacuate at short notice. McKinnon described the flooding as unusual for Pemberton, as it typically occurs later in the year, not in the middle of winter.

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The Pemberton Animal Wellbeing Society reported that staff from Blackcomb Helicopters had to break into their shelter to rescue five puppies and their mother from the rising floodwaters. The society expressed gratitude for the swift rescue efforts that saved lives. A dedicated volunteer also braved the floodwaters to rescue more animals and gather essential supplies.

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The River Forecast Centre has issued a flood warning for the Lillooet, Squamish, and Cheakamus rivers, while Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for the region. The Howe Sound region, which includes Squamish, is predicted to receive an additional 50 millimetres of rain before the precipitation diminishes on Thursday. The District of Squamish has reported localized flooding in some homes but reassured residents that river levels are dropping and crews are prepared to handle more rain.

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The flood incidents in Pemberton have also impacted other areas, including Vancouver Island, where flood watches are in effect, and the Central and North coasts, where high stream-flow advisories are in place. With record-high temperatures and ongoing heavy rain, residents are being urged to remain cautious and prepared as the region continues to grapple with the effects of the atmospheric rivers.

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