Home »
Heavy rainfall leads to localized flooding in Fairmont
The heavy rainfall has resulted in localized flooding in Fairmont Hot Springs and the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is appealing to residents to stay away from the creeks and affected roads.
The RDEK’s Fairmont rain gauge received 10mm of rain in an hour and 18mm within a six-hour period this morning.
“We know when we receive heavy rain like this, it increases the chance of localized flooding and debris flows on Fairmont Creek and Cold Spring Creek and that is what we are seeing on both waterways,” said Engineering Services Manager Brian Funke.
Additional RDEK and Mainroad East Kootenay Contracting staff are en route to Fairmont to complete assessments of the extent of the flooding and impacts to roads and culverts.
“Our primary concern is the safety of residents,” stressed Funke. “We are asking everyone to stay away from the creek banks and avoid any roads that are compromised by flood water.”
This rain event will affect waterways differently around the region; however, anyone in flood prone areas is encouraged to take steps to protect their properties.
Sandbag stations are currently located at:
- Cranbrook Public Works Yard – Cobham Avenue;
- Old Barn – Mountainside Golf Course – Fairmont Hot Springs Road (pictured);
- Windermere Fire Hall parking lot – Highway 93/95;
- RDEK Pump House in Moyie – 9289 Tavistock Street;
- Centennial Hall in Kimberley – 100 4th Ave, Kimberley;
- Fernie Public Works Yard – 1492 Railway Avenue.
The sandbag stations have sand and bags; however, residents need to bring their own shovels and gloves. Sandbags should be filled ½ to ¾ full with the ends folded over for best compaction and effectiveness when placing them.
Residents who see, or are experiencing, wide-scale flooding are encouraged to report it to the Provincial Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-800-663-3456. This is the fastest and most effective way to activate local emergency management personnel.
Lead image: There is a sandbag station at the old barn at Mountainside Golf Course in Fairmont. e-KNOW file photo
RDEK
