Heavy rain continues in Coquitlam over the next several hours and residents are being asked to take steps to reduce the risk of flooding and stay safe.
COQUITLAM, B.C., Monday, Nov. 15, 2021 – Heavy rain continues in Coquitlam over the next several hours and, while City crews are out working on drainage intakes and critical catch basins, we are asking residents to take steps to reduce the risk of flooding and other impacts.
Stay Safe
The City of Coquitlam is urging motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution when traveling under these conditions. Please be aware of higher waters.
The City is monitoring water levels along the Fraser and Coquitlam rivers and while it’s not expected that the community will see flooding similar to other communities, higher than normal water levels present safety risks, so please exercise caution along trails especially at higher elevations and along the Coquitlam River.
- Avoid travel if it is not necessary.
- Pay attention to warning signs – use caution when entering areas that are flooded.
- Do not wade through flood water.
- Drive for the conditions – do not drive through flooded areas – take an alternate route for safety.
- Do not move any barricades or traffic cones; they are there for your protection.
Areas to Avoid
- Lafarge Lake in Town Centre Park – lake loop trail is flooded
- Como Lake Park – lake loop trail is flooded
- Mundy Park – several sections of trail are flooded or washed out
- Woolridge Street near Ikea
- Cedar Drive – closed due to flooding
- Be aware of pooling water in low lying areas
- Due to high winds, people should avoid forested areas
Report Debris or Damaged Trees on Roadways or Public Property
- To report debris on roadways, please contact the City’s Engineering Customer Service line at 604-927-3500 or epw@coquitlam.ca.
- To report a tree on City property that appears to have suffered storm damage, please contact Coquitlam Parks & Facilities Customer Service at 604-927-6300 or parkscustomerservice@coquitlam.ca.
Avoid Flooding
Flooding can occur when runoff from extremely heavy rain exceeds the capacity of the City’s drainage system. Flooding can also happen when drain pipes become blocked by tree roots or debris.
Residents can help prevent flooding by:
- Clearing gutters and catch basins: Keep the catch basins near your property and gutters on buildings clear of leaves, debris and snow. Rake up leaves in the fall to prevent them from plugging drains. Visit www.coquitlam.ca/adoptacatchbasin to view a catch basin map and locate catch basins adjacent to your property.
- Clearing ditches and culverts: If you have an open ditch along your property, check to see that it is clear. Common items such as toys, balls, and milk jugs can often get lodged in the culverts and cause water to back up.
- Do not blow leaves from private property onto City streets: Doing so can greatly increase flooding risk by blocking catch basins. Residents who pay Garbage and Green Waste Utility fees, can put out those fallen leaves and other extra yard trimmings for pick-up on your regular collection day. Residents have until, Friday, Nov. 26 collection day to use the unlimited yard trimmings collection program. Details are at www.coquitlam.ca/yardtrimmings.
- Cleaning foundation drains and sumps: These drains collect water from the house and property, and direct it to the City storm sewer. The pipes can become blocked by leaves, dirt, roots or debris and should be flushed out periodically, or in some cases replaced.
- Repairing broken or damaged pipe: Broken or damaged pipe can cause blockages and flooding of your home. Check that your home drainage system is working properly.
Be Winter Wise
Coquitlam’s Winter Wise program kicks into gear each winter to minimize the impact of snow, ice, storms and colder temperatures. While the City works to keep roads safe and reduce service disruptions, residents are encouraged to do their part by clearing sidewalks and catch basins, parking off-street to allow for plowing, and being prepared for extended power failures or impassable roads.
More information about City services and resident responsibilities during the winter months can be found at www.coquitlam.ca/winterwise.
Stay Up to Date on City Projects and Initiatives
Stay up to date about City news and service changes by:
Media contact:
Brad Lofgren
Director, Public Works
604-927-3500
epw@coquitlam.ca