Abbotsford/Matsqui – City of Abbotsford contrinues to monitor the levels of the Fraser River during the annual snowmelt season (freshet) to assess the flooding risk along the Matsqui Dykes.
BC’s River Forecast Centre published its latest snow survey last week, which states cool weather in April has increased the flood risk considerably, delaying snowmelt. Currently, snow levels remain above normal at 123 per cent, an increase from 108 per cent on April 1.
Continued cool weather is increasing the risk of flooding if a prolonged heatwave occurs over the next few weeks.
The City of Abbotsford will be continuing to monitor river levels closely over the next several weeks as warmer weather arrives and address any potential flooding. In order to allow for accurate inspections of the dyke system, crews have completed work to cut back and remove grass and shrubs along the dyke system. Staff continues to perform regular inspections with the assistance of drones to inspect both the higher risk and difficult to access areas of the dyke system.
As part of the City’s annual freshet preparations, Emergency Operations plans and equipment needs have also been assessed and updated, and sandbag supplies have been secured should they be required. Additionally, in case of an emergency, City staff have confirmed geo-technical consulting services for repairs should they be needed.
The City of Abbotsford will continue to provide updates at www.abbotsford.ca and social media channels as conditions change.
FYI
The Matsqui Dykes are designed to prevent water in the Fraser River from entering into Matsqui Prairie; however, residents living in areas along the Matsqui Dykes may experience pooling of water or seepage, due to the pressure difference created by the high water level.
Seepage pooling is quite common during freshet. To minimize the seepage pooling and/or a boil on your property, please avoid the following activities from May to September near the dykes:
· the removal of trees or stumps;
· deep cultivation of fields; and
· digging holes with machines.
Further information is available from the following sources:
- View the areas where seepage pools were found during previous freshet seasons, or make an in person appointment at the Engineering Department at City Hall for a hardcopy.
- For more information on the snow survey and freshet season, please visit the Province of BC River Forecast Centre website.
- For real-time river level information at the Mission Bridge (Station 08MH024), please visit the Government of Canada Water Office website.
- Report water pooling on your property or to get information on the freshet season, contact the City of Abbotsford Dyking, Drainage and Irrigation Division at 604-853-5485.
