State of emergency in Cache Creek

NEWS — A state of emergency was declared Sunday in the wake of Saturday’s flash flooding in Cache Creek.

Mayor John Ranta issue the declaration after 126 residents were forced from their homes.

No injuries or fatalities were reported but RCMP initiated a tactical evacuation of 60 homes. An evacuation order was in place as of 7 p.m. Sunday for several homes along the Trans Canada Highway East, Stage Road, and Old Cariboo Road, and an evacuation alert was in place for an area west of the Bonaparte River and north Todd Road, and three homes on Old Cariboo Road.

The state of emergency empowers the Village and Thompson-Nicola Regional District to coordinate resources to respond to flooding that could result in “severe impact of the local economy and the well-being of the community.”

The evacuation alert notifies residents of the potential for threat to life and health to escalate and create unsafe conditions.

“If further evacuation orders are issued you must leave your home immediately and register with Emergency Social Services at the Reception Centre at 1270 Stage Rd (Cache Creek Community Hall),” a statement from the Thompson-Nicola Regional District issued Sunday evening said.

The extreme downpour lasted from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, carrying sand, soil and debris into the creek system, and flooding basements with water and mud, and blocking roads with debris. Village of Cache Creek public works crews have been working to clear debris from culverts and roadways. Village sewer and water systems have not been impacted.

The TNRD said Cache Creek fire department is available and will respond to emergencies. “Once a disaster assessment has been completed the Province will determine eligibility for Disaster Financial Assistance.”

Residents who had to leave their homes are being put up in hotels and the homes of family and friends.

Residents are being asked to report flooding to the Provincial Emergency Program 24 hour Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-800-663-3456.