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All trails closed in Chilliwack on Monday as precautionary measure

Trails in Chilliwack to remain closed until they can be inspected after 3rd storm passes
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Flooding debris from the Vedder River on the Vedder Rotary Trail seen here on Nov. 19, 2021. (Paul Henderson/ Chilliwack Progress)

Chilliwack’s recreational trails were “heavily impacted” in the weekend rain.

“As a precautionary measure all trails in the city are currently closed, and will remain closed until staff are able to inspect conditions after the next storm,” according to a Nov. 29 situation update from City of Chilliwack.

City crews worked to mitigate impacts of the latest storm, like cleaning culverts and drains, clearing debris, and dealing with small mudslides throughout the night (Nov. 28).

It’s believed the next storm, starting Tuesday won’t see the Nooksack River overtopping its banks to the same degree as it did in recent events. While ditches around Chilliwack filled up Sunday, local river levels did not come close to topping Chilliwack dikes.

Fraser River level had started to drop, so outflow is expected to increase to take the pressure off Sumas River dikes.

“The provincial government has a plan in place to make sure we receive the supplies we need,” said Mayor Ken Popove. “Please buy only what you need. When panic buying happens, it places an unnecessary strain on resources.”

Highway 1 was still closed Monday morning. Check updates found at drivebc.ca and tranbc.ca. Highway 7 remains open for essential travel, including the transportation of food and other supplies. There is still no access to Abbotsford through Yarrow.

With local drainage systems are overwhelmed, mostly in low-lying areas, residents might see localized flooding including wet yards and basements. Residents have been trying to protect their homes with sump pumps and/or sandbags. Sand and bags remain available at Yarrow Sports Field and Townsend Park to help support those efforts.

Significant progress on road and culverts repairs has been made in the last two weeks. City staff are preparing for the next storm, and will continue to clear roadways, culverts and drains throughout Chilliwack. Information about road closures, trail closures, and updates continue at chilliwack.com/floodwatch.

RELATED: How much rain fell over the weekend?

RELATED: Residents asked to reduce water use to help sewers

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27341726_web1_211129-CPL-Trails-Closed-flooding_2
Flooding debris from the Vedder River on the Vedder Rotary Trail seen here on Nov. 19, 2021. (Paul Henderson/ Chilliwack Progress)


Jennifer Feinberg

About the Author: Jennifer Feinberg

I have been a Chilliwack Progress reporter for 20+ years, covering the arts, city hall, as well as Indigenous, and climate change stories.
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