Flood warning along Alouette River: BC Hydro
Posted January 31, 2020 11:05 am.
Last Updated January 31, 2020 4:06 pm.
MAPLE RIDGE (NEWS 1130) — BC Hydro is warning people along the Alouette River in Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge to be prepared for flooding.
Due to the heavy rains expected Friday, Hydro has been releasing water from the Alouette Reservoir into the river to make room.
BC Hydro spokesperson Tanya Fish notes this January has neared record of rainfall in the reservoir, possibly hitting up to 250 millimeteres of rain in total.
“We have been releasing water throughout the month of January from the reservoir,” she says. “Unfortunately, our operations do limit the amount of water we can release at certain times, which is why we are potentially going see some spillover.”
BC Hydro is warning if the rains become heavier, the Alouette Reservior may hit capacity, which could cause localized flooding.
“For those around the Alouette River this weekend, we are advising them to stay cautious, to stay away, and follow the safety signage around the river,” Fish says, since water levels could change rapidly.
She says last time levels were this high was 1996.
Hydro says it’s working with local authorities and will be monitoring the situation throughout the day.
With files from Dean Recksiedler
