Abbotsford,BC – The City of Abbotsford has declared a State of Local Emergency and issued evacuation orders for 371 properties in Sumas Prairie West due to the rising risk of flooding. Residents in the affected areas are being told to leave immediately, while Evacuation Alerts have also been issued for Sumas Prairie East and remain in effect for the rest of Sumas Prairie West and Clayburn Village.
City officials say the decision follows extensive coordination with the Province of B.C. and Whatcom County in Washington State. Current modelling shows the Nooksack River is expected to crest at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s major flood stage, potentially sending floodwaters toward the Canada–U.S. border in the early hours of Thursday, December 11.
An interactive map has been made available online for residents to check whether their address falls under an alert or order. Emergency personnel, including Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service and Abbotsford Police, are on the ground visiting homes to ensure residents are aware and assisting with evacuation efforts.
A Reception Centre has been opened at Abbotsford Recreation Centre (2499 McMillan Road) to provide immediate shelter, resources and assistance to evacuees. All residents under evacuation order are asked to register at the centre, either in person or online, within 24 hours.
The City has issued clear steps for those evacuating: gather family members and assist neighbours when possible, take only essential items like medications and wallets, bring pets secured in kennels or on leashes, and shut off gas and electrical appliances except fridges and freezers. Evacuees are asked to close doors, windows and gates before leaving and follow main roads out of the evacuation zone.
Farmers who are concerned about their livestock have been advised to contact their respective industry associations, which are in communication with the Ministry of Agriculture to coordinate support.
At 7:15 p.m., the Ministry of Transportation and Transit issued a travel advisory for the Fraser Valley, warning residents to avoid non-essential travel. Officials cautioned that Highway 1 and other routes may close with little to no notice. Highway 11 at the Sumas border crossing is already closed to commercial vehicles and open only to local traffic.
The Emergency Operations Centre continues to monitor dike conditions, river levels and roadways. City crews are working throughout the night to clear catch basins and address drainage issues. Residents who notice clogged drains, localized flooding or overflowing ditches are encouraged to report them by calling 604-853-5485 during business hours or 604-864-5552 after hours, or by using the Abbotsford app.
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