Monday, November 18, 2024 – Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the region, including Sooke, with forecasts indicating strong winds and heavy rains over the next several days, likely persisting until Wednesday. Residents are urged to be prepared for potential power outages and hazardous conditions.
Prepare for Power Outages
We encourage everyone to check their emergency kits to ensure they have essential supplies ready in the event of power outages. For the latest updates on power outages and restoration progress, please refer to B.C. Hydro.
Downed Lines
In case of downed power lines, stay back at least 10 metres and call 9-1-1. Remember to avoid any area with downed lines, as they pose a serious safety risk.
Sandbag Station and Flood Preparedness
A sandbag station is available at Ed Macgregor Park parking lot for residents and businesses who may need it. Please take advantage of this resource if your property is prone to flooding. Additionally, we ask residents to help prevent localized flooding by clearing catch basins near their properties in advance of the heavy rainfall.
Tree Hazards and Debris
High winds increase the risk of falling branches and trees. Please be cautious around trees and avoid areas with weakened branches. After the storm, clean-up efforts may take several days. If you need to report downed trees on public property, including parks and local roads, please contact the District at 250.642.1634.
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will be monitoring Highway 14. For the latest on Highway conditions, please see Drive BC.
Water Safety
As rivers rise and tides reach high levels, combined with increasing winds, please stay clear of fast-moving water and unstable banks. This applies to pets as well—keep them away from water bodies and shorelines.
Park Conditions and Potential Closures
Significant debris, including logs and rocks, may wash ashore at Whiffin Spit and other waterfront areas, potentially blocking trails or creating other hazards. While parks such as Whiffin Spit, Sunriver Nature Trail, and the Sooke Potholes Gateway remain open, conditions are being closely monitored. For public safety, park and outdoor space closures may be implemented if conditions worsen. Any closures enacted are for your safety, and District teams will work diligently to reopen any closed areas as soon as they are safe.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
We encourage all residents to stay informed through Environment Canada and PreparedBC resources for weather updates and safety tips.
- More from Environment Canada: tps://weather.gc.ca/en/location/index.html?coords=48.382,-123.728
- More from PreparedBC: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/guides-and-resources
Stay safe, Sooke.