A High Streamflow Advisory is in effect for the entire East Kootenay.

Water levels are subject to rapid change given current conditions, often with no warning. Please use extreme caution around waterways and stay back from creek or riverbanks.

Here is the latest update on regional impacts from the rainfall:

Fernie:

• The rainfall has pushed wastewater flows beyond what the city’s wastewater system can safely handle. To prevent a critical infrastructure failure, the city opened an emergency bypass at the Main Sewage Lift Station, resulting in a temporary release of untreated effluent into the Elk River.
• The EOC continues to work with the City of Fernie, Interior Health, and other agencies.
• City crews are responding to localized flooding within the city.
• Residents of Fernie can help by eliminating non-essential water use & ensuring sump pumps, downspouts & perimeter drains are not connected to the sanitary sewer system.

Area A:

• The RDEK’s Flood Response Unit is monitoring the Hosmer / Mine Creek confluence.
• The Ministry of Transportation and Transit / Mainroad EK is doing regular patrols throughout the area.

SELF-FILL SANDBAG STATIONS (bring gloves/shovel)

• Fernie: Railway Ave (next to the Operations Facility);
• Hosmer: far side of the parking lot of the Elk River Inn Hotel;
• Sparwood: on Engelmann Spruce Drive past the Mainroad Yard and Fire Hall #1;
• Fairmont: Behind the old barn at Mountainside Golf Course on Hot Springs Rd;
• Kimberley: behind Centennial Hall – 100 4 Ave.

The RDEK Flood Response Unit has been monitoring several locations around the region and will continue to do so until this system has passed. Our Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) team is also in regular contact with the municipalities and other agencies to ensure we are ready to support as needed.

If you see widescale flooding, call the 24-hour emergency reporting line: 250-489-9677.

Though the rainfall is forecast to ease this evening, the effects of this system will likely be felt for at least a day or two. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

RDEK

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