Natural Dam Breach Prompts Evacuations in British Columbia

A natural dam in British Columbia caused by a landslide has overflowed, leading to evacuation orders for residents along the Chilcotin and Fraser rivers. Officials warn of potential additional landslides and advise against boating. Emergency alerts have been issued, and the situation is being monitored closely.

British Columbia officials have issued evacuation orders after water began overflowing a natural dam created by a landslide blocking the Chilcotin River. Residents along the Chilcotin and Fraser rivers in western Canada are being evacuated as a precaution.

Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, cautioned that the risk of additional landslides remains, even as the worst-case scenario becomes less likely. In a media briefing, she emphasized the ongoing danger and discouraged any recreational activities near the water.

Water levels surged from 7.5 cubic metres per second to 750 cubic metres per second, increasing the size of the channel and carrying debris. Additional evacuation alerts have been issued in the Cariboo and Thompson-Nicola regional districts. Officials are monitoring the situation and preparing for potential impacts on wild salmon, fish species, and cultural sites along the rivers.

(With inputs from agencies.)