Waters Receding in Houston Following Mid Week Flooding

By 250 News

Water levels in the Houston area are being monitored by District staff after a rainstorm two nights ago caused low level flooding in the eastern end of the community. No property damage was caused and all access roads remain open and passable from the flooding caused by rising water levels in Henry Creek.

"Houston is a very resilient community and we've worked diligently to plan and prepare for flooding so that we can mitigate risks and if necessary, respond quickly and decisively," said Ken Thomson, Houston Emergency Coordinator.

"Flood waters in the Henry Creek area are beginning to recede, but we continue to urge residents to be vigilant and attentive to rivers that are experiencing higher than normal water levels, and to ensure personal preparedness for individual and family safety."

With the help from ten unit crew members from the Ministry of Forests, sandbagging in the community has been done both in response to the rainstorm and as a preventative measure for possible future flooding in tributaries like Henry Creek and along the Bulkley River.

The community also completed four projects yesterday totalling over $280,000 that were part of the provincial government's $33-million flood preparation funding. This included raising sections of the Bulkley River dikes, debris management, dike repairs, replacing riprap, as well as erosion protection on the Bulkley River.

"The District is working closely with all levels of government. We're in constant contact with agencies in the area and working collaboratively with neighbouring communities, ministries and the Provincial Emergency Program and would like to thank everyone for their continued support," said Thomson.

Drainage of the Upper Bulkley River and Buck Creek are currently 15 per cent above the highest levels recorded in the previous flood years of 1997 and 2002.

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