Freshet 2022 - Update July 5 4:00PM

The Mission Gauge on the Fraser River has exceeded 5.50m and is forecast to continue rising and then peak at 5.9m over the coming days. The levels are then forecasted to start receding slowly.

As a result, the evacuation alert that was issued on June 28 to properties in these low-lying unprotected areas has been rescinded:

• Northwest Langley
• Fort Langley
• Glen Valley

The alert was issued to proactively prepare residents to evacuate their premises or property should it be found necessary.  Residents in these low-lying areas will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to the issuance of any evacuation orders.

View a larger version of the map.

Residents are reminded to stay clear of fast-flowing rivers and potentially unstable riverbanks during the high-streamflow period.

Closures (For your safety, avoid closure areas)

• June 14 - Langley Rowing and Paddling Centre Dock (west of Jacob Haldi Bridge)
• June 13 - Marina Park pathway fronting the Fraser River
• June 13 - The Fort to Fort trail between the Salmon River pump station and Allard Crescent
• June 13 - Trans Canada Trail south of Allard Crescent on 208 Street
• June 10 - Marina Park boat launch

Openings (From recent closures - use caution when using these areas as water can rise quickly)

• None to report at this time.

The Township has a comprehensive Flood Response Plan that has been updated based on prior years' experiences, and includes regular dyke inspections and monitoring of the water levels provided by federal and provincial agencies.  

The Township of Langley's Flood Response Plan considers the readings at the Mission Gauge to determine the threat of flooding and action that should be taken by those potentially impacted.

Residents in the floodplain are reminded to have a plan in place which includes arranging to stay with family or friends, having emergency kits packed with clothes, medication and other necessities, ensuring a meeting place has been established if families are not together if an evacuation is ordered, and making provision for pets and livestock.

1. Know the risks:  The Fraser River spring freshet results from snow melt in the Fraser River watershed.  The river generally starts rising near the end of May and continues until mid-July.  The Township strongly encourages property owners in the floodplain to consider the consequences of a flood happening on their own property, and to address any issues ahead of time.
2. Confirm your plan:  In the event of an emergency, residents may be advised by the Township to evacuate their homes.  Have a plan on where to go, what to take, and how to keep in touch with loved ones while you are away.
3. Create an emergency kit:  Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours.  By gathering a few basic supplies ahead of time, you will not be as severely affected if your tap water or electricity is cut off.  Visit getprepared.gc.ca for a complete list of what to include in your emergency kit.

Visit tol.ca/floodresponse for more information,

Updates will be posted here, and @Langley Township on Twitter and Facebook.

Engineering Division

604-532-7300

opsinfo@tol.ca