As the water rises in the Fraser River, Abbotsford isn't anticipating a serious flood.
The Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service has posted a notice on its website assuring residents that while the water levels are currently above average in the lower Fraser Valley, "there is no threat to the community."
"City staff is continuing to monitor weather and river conditions along with conducting daily dike patrols until the potential flood risk subsides," said the statement.
Rain is expected to keep the Fraser River at a high level, peaking today (Thursday) and then dropping through the weekend.
The statement added that localized flooding to properties outside of the dike system may occur.
So far, Matsqui Trail Regional Park, located along the dike, has experienced flooding.
In 2007, the city of Abbotsford spent $4.5 million out of its reserves to raise dikes, on top of $4 million that the provincial government offered for flood protection.
In neighbouring Mission, Fire/Rescue Service Chief Ian Fitzpatrick, who also doubles as the local emergency preparedness co-ordinator, said there is "no immediate concern given the river is expected to rise to 6.04 metres [Thursday] morning."
At that level, the water is not likely to spill over the natural banks.
For the latest in current flood reports visit the http://emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca.
- With files from Jason Roessle