Freshet 2023

UPDATE:  May 26 3:00pm

Fraser River levels have receded and are forecast to continue receding.  All trails and facilities closed as a result of high water are now open.  We anticipate no further impacts in our community from rising water levels associated with Freshet 2023.

We urge you to proceed with caution on or near rivers, streams and tributaries and adjacent embankments until the High Streamflow Advisory is rescinded by the Province.

CLOSURES:

• None

OPENINGS:

• May 26 A portion of the Fort to Fort Trail at Marina Park
• May 26 Trans Canada Trail on the west side of 208 Street, south of Allard Crescent
• May 25 Fort to Fort Trail from Allard Crescent to the Salmon River Dyke Station
• May 23 Langley Rowing and Paddling Centre Dock
• May 23 Marina Park Boat Launch

UPDATE: May 23, 2023 3:30pm

The Fraser River flows at the Mission Gauge have receded to 5.25m as of 3:30pm, resulting in the end of the flood advisory for properties in the unprotected flood plain areas of Northwest Langley, Glen Valley and Fort Langley.

While the flood advisory has been rescinded, the High Streamflow Advisory for the Fraser River remains in place.  Use caution in or near rivers, streams and tributaries as well as adjacent embankments.

UPDATE: May 20, 2023 12:30pm

The Mission Gauge on the Fraser River has reached 5.50m, resulting in the issuance of a flood advisory for properties in the unprotected flood plain areas of Northwest Langley, Glen Valley and Fort Langley.  This is not an order to evacuate.  

For more information on river conditions and forecasts, visit River Forecast Centre - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

UPDATE: May 19, 2023 8:00pm

River levels are rising and expected to continue to rise.  Being near fast flowing bodies of water can be dangerous.  Stay clear and avoid potentially unstable riverbanks.  Avoid recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating or hiking near high streamflow rivers or streams.

May 18: 2023 The Mission Gauge on the Fraser River is currently reading 5.1m and rising.

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