Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Local State of Emergency lifted - Baker Creek

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The City of Quesnel has cancelled the Local State of Emergency that has been in effect since Friday evening.

The declaration had been in place due to the potential risk of flash flooding after a landslide took place in Baker Creek near Pinnacles Provincial Park, about three kilometres upstream from where the creek flows into the Fraser River.

A team of specialists coordinated by Emergency Management BC and the City of Quesnel
visited the site on Monday afternoon, and after consulting again this morning, determined there is no immediate risk to the public.

The material that slid into the creek is solid material, including several large boulders, that is not expected to dissolve suddenly. The opposite creek bank appears to consist mainly of material that erodes easily. This is allowing the creek to carve a new path around the blockage.

Various agencies, including the City of Quesnel, will continue to monitor the site, especially during next spring's run-off period. A more in-depth geotechnical assessment may also be conducted to determine a number of things, including what caused the slide and the potential for new slides in the area.

Despite the risk of a flash flood having passed, the City reminds residents that the creeks and rivers in our area remain potentially dangerous places, and that people should always exercise caution when enjoying them.

The City thanks residents for their cooperation, patience and understanding during this event.

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