Wednesday, January 10, 2024 – On behalf of the District of Sooke, I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your support and swift response in the face of the strong winds and rains that impacted our community yesterday.
It takes a combined effort to respond to weather events and your kindness, patience and care are appreciated.
I would like to especially acknowledge the tremendous work of BC Hydro, Victoria Contracting, Police and Fire Services, School District 62, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and Sooke Parks and Bylaw staff – just to name a few.
While we seem to be on the other side of this particular event, their work will continue with clean-up efforts and preparation for a winter cold snap expected in the coming days.
At this time, Whiffin Spit and Sooke Bluffs Parks are back open; however, Whiffin Spit parking lot is closed. Whiffin Spit Trail is functioning as a nature trail with considerable debris on the path; please use caution if visiting the park. Crews will remain working in the areas for several days.
If you are concerned with trees in public spaces, please get in touch with Sooke parks at 250.642.1634 or parks@sooke.ca. While crews are doing their best to address damaged trees and fallen debris, assistance from the community to notify our team of concerns is helpful to aid in our response.
Additionally, residents are encouraged to help clear catch basins if they are able to do so. With over 700 basins in Sooke, residents’ help in sweeping leaves or other fallen debris from the basins can go a long way in preventing flooding.
As we turn our attention to an anticipated drop in temperatures, crews are brining cold roads and will do their best with snow clearing – prioritizing bus and school routes.
Please use caution and drive only if you are comfortable doing so and your vehicle is equipped appropriately.
I encourage you to check in with neighbours, especially the elderly, and provide support as you can with shovelling snow or providing other assistance they might need.
Remember to check your home emergency kits and ensure your vehicle has additional supplies as well. Sand is available for sandbags or traction in response to snow at the Ed Macgregor parking lot. Please help yourself, taking only what you need so there is enough for everyone.
It truly takes all of us working together to navigate weather events. I am constantly inspired by seeing how Sooke comes together to support each other.
With utmost respect and appreciation,
Mayor Maja Tait
Related resources:
- https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/build-an-emergency-kit-and-grab-and-go-bag
- https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/public-safety-and-emergency-services/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/embc/preparedbc/preparedbc-guides/preparedbc_flood_preparedness_guide_fillable.pdf
- https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/public-safety-and-emergency-services/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/embc/preparedbc/preparedbc-guides/preparedbc_winter_guide.pdf