Port Coquitlam Landslide during Atmospheric River

Port Coquitlam was rocked by a landslide this past Sunday as relentless rain soaked the region, making headlines amid a powerful atmospheric river that swept through Metro Vancouver.

Location and Immediate Safety Measures

The landslide occurred in the Citadel area, specifically near a townhouse complex to the north of Argue Street. Luckily, city officials have confirmed that while residents should steer clear of the area for safety, there are currently no immediate hazards to public safety.

City Response and Responsibility

Joshua Fredrick, the director of Engineering & Public Works in Port Coquitlam, revealed to Global News that this incident was actually comprised of two simultaneous slides. 'The city is acting as a first responder, taking proactive steps to ensure safety,' he remarked. Although the affected land belongs to the Ministry of Transportation, local authorities have ensured that immediate measures are in place while the ministry will assume responsibility moving forward.

Resident Reaction

Wendy Marr, a local resident, shared her experience of the startling event, noting, 'We all know that hillside is always a threat, but visually, it didn’t seem severe because it wasn’t a mudslide.' This sentiment reflects the heightened awareness among locals living near such potentially unstable areas.

Rainfall Statistics and Weather Impact

The atmospheric river that caused the havoc dumped a staggering amount of rain across southern British Columbia over the weekend. Reports indicate that regions throughout Metro Vancouver received between 54 and 68 millimeters of rain from Saturday afternoon until early Monday morning. Particularly hard-hit areas included Agassiz, which saw 68 millimeters, while Chilliwack Airport recorded 54 millimeters.

Remarkably, the rain measurements skyrocketed in more remote locations. Port Mellon in Howe Sound recorded a mind-blowing 86 millimeters, with Cape Beale Lighthouse on West Vancouver Island registering a whopping 134 millimeters of rainfall. Just as impressive were the figures from Lennard Island Lighthouse, where 102 millimeters fell.

Ongoing Weather Alerts

In light of these conditions, Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning for the Fraser Valley, including Hope, still in effect as of Monday. Meteorologists caution that total rainfall amounts could peak at around 80 millimeters. Fortunately, it looks like the worst may soon be over; the heavy rainfall is expected to give way to lighter showers by Monday afternoon, tapering off into early Tuesday morning.

Community Preparedness and Conclusion

As communities in the area brace for potential aftereffects of the inclement weather, experts are urging an extra level of caution and preparedness. Stay tuned for updates on how the situation develops in this rain-soaked region. Will you be ready for more surprise weather like this? Check your local forecasts!