Thursday, May 19, 2011

Evac Order for 3rd Property - Cottonwood River

The Cariboo Regional District has expanded the evacuation order to a third property on the Cottonwood River near the Quesnel/Hixon Road and Landry Road area as a result of high water levels. Fourteen properties remain under evacuation alert.

Last night, the Cariboo Regional District hosted a meeting for residents in the affected Cottonwood area to help answer questions and provide information to residents about the services and programs that may be available to them as a result of the emergency.

The CRD can confirm that all compensation strategies available are being explored by Emergency Management BC in Victoria in relation to the Cottonwood Properties. During the meeting, Emergency Management BC representatives provided answers to many questions raised by residents, and assured those that have been evacuated, they will continue to be provided with Emergency Social Service benefits for as long as required. Representatives also discussed potential options for intermediate solutions which could provide suitable rental housing options for displaced residents until long-term solutions are finalized.

The weather predictions indicate warm weather, precipitation and the onset of snow melt at low to mid elevations. The Cottonwood River remains under a flood watch issued by the River Forecast Centre.

Residents are reminded to use extreme caution at this time of year near, on or around waterways as a result of elevated water levels and rapid currents. Rivers, streams and creeks throughout the Region are swollen and should be considered hazardous as warm temperatures this weekend could see increased flows.

Further information will be available as the situation develops. For all inquiries, visit the CRD online at www.cariboord.bc.ca or call the Emergency Operations Centre at 250-398-5117. Current information is also available from the BC Government online news centre at www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/emergencyinfobc/

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