FLOODING – State of local emergency declared in Nicola Valley north

A state of local emergency was declared at 9 p.m. tonight (May 8, 2017) for the Nicola Valley north electoral area of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District due to flooding.

The declaration provides the TNRD with the authority to perform emergency works within and around waterways, including constructing or placing erosion protection works or flood protection works. It also gives the TNRD the authority to clear obstructions from bridges or culverts.

The order, made to “protect the health, safety or welfare of people or to limit damage to property,” remains in force for seven days or until cancelled. It covers Electoral Area M (Beautiful Nicola Valley – North).

Some areas of the region are experiencing a respite from the flash flooding of the past several days after the rain stopped on Sunday, but it may be temporary. Warmer temperatures over the next couple of days are expected to create more snow melt, followed by more rain.

In the meantime, the huge number of washouts — such as the one on old Highway 5A near Heffley Creek elementary — has meant repairs are slow to get done.