Flood
Some areas on the North Shore could experience flooding due to heavy rains, melting snow packs, and storm surges.
People often underestimate the power of moving water.
Floods can damage property, erode soil, and be contaminated with sewage, pesticides, oil, or chemical waste.
Risk of flood on the North Shore: High
Heavy rains and melting snow put some areas of the North Shore at high risk for flood
How to prepare for a flood
Prepare an emergency plan and emergency kit so you can survive on your own for a minimum of 72 hours, and know what to do if you have to evacuate.
If there is a flood warning
Check street catch basins around your property to ensure they not blocked by ice or leaves.
Shovel snow away from the house and basement windows.
What to do during a flood
- Avoid small creeks and rivers which can fill up quickly.
- Avoid creek and river banks which can become unstable.
- If you are evacuated, turn off your home's natural gas before leaving.
Driving during a flood
Avoid driving if you can. Roads covered with pooled flood waters can be dangerous to drive on.
The average vehicle can be swept off the road in 30 cm (1 ft) of moving water.
If you must drive, check DriveBC first for highway conditions and road closures first. When driving:
- Go carefully and slowly
- Stay out of the path of flooded areas
- Avoid going through floodwater; take an alternate route
- If your vehicle stalls in floodwater, get out quickly and move to higher ground
- Follow the directions of emergency officials, including those directing traffic
Prepare an emergency vehicle kit
Get notified of a flood
Learn more about floods