Vancouver weather turns from freezing to flooding risk

From freezing temperatures to flood risks.

That’s the weather story of the week throughout the Lower Mainland, as temperatures warm up and the rain returns.

See also

• Avalanche danger 'elevated' as warmer, wet weather returns to Lower Mainland
• Heavy rain forecast in Vancouver this week as normal winter resumes

Now, the City of Vancouver – along with local regional authorities – is sharing information with residents on how to best handle the combination of rain and melting snow.

With heavy rainfall & milder temps ahead, residents are encouraged to clear leaves and debris near catch basins and sewer drains. #vanpoli pic.twitter.com/xbsprGvfqL

— Van Mayor’s Office (@VanMayorsOffice) January 17, 2017

Water is pooling in some areas of #NewWest. Please help us keep storm drains clear of debris and please watch your speed. #staysafe

— NWPD Traffic (@NWPDtraffic) January 17, 2017

We’re a ‘Wet Coast’ again! Expect reduced visibility/traction on roads,high avalanche risk in backcountry&high creek/river flows. Be safe! pic.twitter.com/txdQyH0L0Y

— West Vancouver PD (@WestVanPolice) January 17, 2017

From too much cold, to too much water! Take a few minutes and clear your catch basins and drains Vancouverites!

— Vancouver Fire (@VanFireRescue) January 16, 2017

“Residents are encouraged to do their part by clearing leaves and debris near catch basins and sewer drains in their neighbourhood to reduce the risk of flooding,” a statement from the city reads.

The potential for flooding issues can also be reduced by clearing snow around the catch basins on your property.

If catch basins are frozen over, people can use the VanConnect app to report the blockage.

The city also offers tips on how to prevent flooding in your home, including:

• Sealing cracks or openings in walls, floors, windows and foundations, and seal all window wells.
• Clearing eavestroughs and downspouts of leaves and other debris that prevent proper drainage.
• Ensuring the grading around your home slopes away from the foundation wall to help drain water away from your home (without negatively affecting neighbouring properties).
• Ensuring that your plumbing and drainage systems are in good working condition. Homeowners are responsible for the plumbing from the property line to inside the home.

“City crews are doing preventative maintenance including clearing catch basins and sewer drains on arterial roads and also in known problem areas,” the release added. “The City will assess the forecast throughout the week and will dispatch additional crews where and when required.”

More information on how to help prevent flooding, can be found here.

To report non-emergency flooding on City streets and sidewalks, fallen tree branches or other issues, download the City’s mobile app, VanConnect on the city’s website, or call 3-1-1.