Yarrow residents are on evacuation order.
The Chilliwack community of Yarrow, on the western edge of the city was the latest to be issued an evacuation order, after slides hit Vedder Mountain and floodwater flowed from the Sumas Prairie area.
About 3,300 people, and more than 1,000 households, are impacted by the Yarrow evacuation order.
Mayor Ken Popove said the latest reports showed the Nooksack River to be cresting but they are concentrating on evacuating the western part of Yarrow first.
“In response to the potential danger that may arise due to flooding, the City of Chilliwack has issued an evacuation order for the community of Yarrow,” according to the notice Nov. 16.
The area under evacuation order includes: Yarrow, from Boundary Road to Browne Road, and all of Majuba Hill.
Yarrow residents are being directed to use Boundary Road to Keith Wilson, over Keith Wilson Bridge as the evacuation route. The bridge is open to residents leaving Yarrow and emergency responders only.
A single lane on Vedder Mountain Road is open to residents leaving Yarrow and emergency personnel only.
“Residents should register at the Reception Centre at the Neighbourhood Learning Centre (Chilliwack Secondary School) at 46363 Yale Road.”
City staff will be providing updates all day.
“Due to the highway closures and extremely limited hotel availability, evacuees are strongly encouraged to stay with family and friends.”
City officials are reminding residents to be prepared in case of emergency by ensuring the household has a grab-and-go emergency kit containing food and water, prescription medications, toiletries, a change of clothing, insurance papers and other important documents.
Updates here and at chilliwack.com/FloodWatch as information becomes available.
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