The City's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is prepared to deal with emergencies like floods within Pitt Meadows. The City has a comprehensive flood emergency plan based on the Fraser River levels in Mission measured by the Mission gauge combined with weather events. View real-time river level data for the Mission gauge here.
Current Flood Status
The City is currently monitoring river levels (PHASE 2 below). Flood preparedness.
- Please see our Emergency Alerts page for any current flood alerts or high streamflow advisories.
- Visit pittmeadows.ca/floodpreparation to learn how the City prepares for and prevents flooding, and how you can help protect your own property in the event of a flood.
River Levels and Flood Response
Flooding in Pitt Meadows is largely determined by what is happening in the Cariboo region coming through Prince George via the Fraser River. Flooding will typically show up in Mission first.
The City of Pitt Meadows has a detailed flood response plan based on river levels measured by the Mission gauge:
- Phase 1 – day to day operation, below bank conditions
- Phase 2 – flood preparedness, flooding anticipated
- Phase 3 – flood response, flooding in progress
- Phase 4 – recovery
FRESHET FLOOD RESPONSE LEVELS | |
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PHASE 1: Mission 1.0 to 5.0 (Below bank conditions)
- River level is normal
- Day to day operations
- Reviewing Freshet Plan and flood supplies
- Inspecting dikes weekly and other flood protection infrastructure
- Monitoring Mission and Hope Gauges and weather forecast
What You Can Do
- Make an emergency plan.
- Build a grab-and-go bag and emergency kit.
- Find tips and resources.
PHASE 2: Mission 5.0 to 6.0, Hope 11,000 m3/s+ (Flood preparedness)
- Rising river level has filled its natural banks, but has not spilled over into the floodplain
- Localized flooding may be present
- Inspecting dikes regularly
- Continuing planning activities
What You Can Do
- Monitor the City’s website and social media channels or local media for updates about sandbagging stations or possible evacuation procedures or routes.
- If a flood warning is in effect, shut off electricity to areas that are at risk of flooding and move small appliances, electronics and smaller furniture to upper floors or areas not likely to be affected.
- Make sure your grab-and-go bag is ready, if you need to evacuate.
PHASE 3, Stage 1: Mission 6.0+ (Flood response)
- Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) activated to Level 1 or 2
- Local State of Emergency may be declared
- River banks are full; flooding anticipated
- Possible flood alerts
- Inspecting dikes more frequently
- Monitoring and preparing for flood response
What You Can Do
- If an evacuation alert has been issued, be ready to leave on short notice.
- Gather your grab-and-go bags, emergency plan and important documents.
- Ensure your vehicle has fuel and is parked away from waterways.
- Do NOT attempt to shut off electricity if water is present.
- Use sandbags to block floor drains and toilets to prevent sewage back-up.
PHASE 3, Stage 2: Mission 7.0+ (Flood response)
- Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) activated to Level 3
- Possible flood evacuation order
- Provincial State of Emergency may be declared
- Possible river widening into floodplain adjacent to the dikes
- Extensive flooding of unprotected areas outside of the City’s diking system
What the City’s Doing
- Daily monitoring and repair of dikes
What You Can Do
- If an evacuation order has been issued, you are in danger and must leave immediately.
- Follow instructions from officials and evacuate using designated routes.
- Do not attempt to cross rivers or flowing streams.
- Do not drive or walk across flooded roads: Two feet of water can carry away most vehicles and six inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
- If your car begins to flood, abandon it and head to higher ground.
PHASE 3, Stage 3: Mission decreasing (Demobilization and recovery)
- Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) activation levels reduced
- Flooding receding
What the City’s Doing
- Continuing monitoring
- Supporting community recovery
What You Can Do
- Once officials determine the situation is safe, the evacuation order will be rescinded and you can return home.
- Continue to stay tuned for other possible evacuation alerts or orders.
PHASE 4: Mission decreasing (Recovery)
- River levels returning to normal
- Replacement and restoration of essential services and properties begins.
What You Can Do
- Disaster financial assistance may be available for property owners.