Water has begun to overflow the landslide blocking the Chilcotin River near Farwell Canyon, according to an update from the Government of BC.
A BC Emergency alert has been issued to cellphones, radio and television to advise people in the area on or along the riverbanks of the Chilcotin River from Hanceville to the Fraser River, and the Fraser River from the Chilcotin River to the Gang Ranch Road bridge to evacuate immediately due to flooding and debris flow. People unable to evacuate themselves should call 911.
People must also stay off the Chilcotin and Fraser rivers and away from riverbanks due to the risk of fast-moving water and debris. Even if the water elevation in an area may be similar to freshet (spring flooding) levels, the water will react differently, with greater momentum and force, than gradually increasing water levels.
Teams are on site assessing the landslide movement, and the province is expected to provide an update later today.
Additional BC Emergency alerts will be issued to people downstream on and along the Fraser River as peak flows progress. People must follow the instructions noted in the alert. Real-time water-level monitoring information is publicly available through the Water Survey of Canada: https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/
People in communities along the Chilcotin and Fraser Rivers should stay updated with their local government or First Nation regarding evacuation alerts, orders and routes to safety.