Crews work nonstop as severe weather causes road closures and sewer issues in Coquitlam.
City crews in Coquitlam, British Columbia are working tirelessly to manage the aftermath of a storm that hit late Friday afternoon, resulting in significant rainfall across the city.
The storm has unleashed over 200 mm of rain in some areas within 24 hours, leading to widespread flooding. In response, residents have been advised to avoid areas including Cedar Drive, Quarry Road, Town Centre Park, Mackin Park, Como Lake Park, and Coquitlam Crunch due to closed roads and hazardous conditions.
The city’s infrastructure is being tested as drainage and sanitary sewer systems are pushed to capacity, prompting localized sewer overflows that crews are actively mitigating.
Public Works crews have been engaged in proactive measures, maintaining around-the-clock operations to address issues arising from the storm. Their efforts extend to clearing key catch basins, responding to sewer overflows, managing localized flooding, and assessing a reported slide on Quarry Road.
In anticipation of emerging challenges, a dedicated nightshift team will continue to manage the situation actively throughout the night.
The BC River Forecast Centre has escalated its warning for the Coquitlam River from a Flood Watch to a Flood Warning. The city is closely observing the situation, with residents advised to steer clear of parks and trails near watercourses.
Residents are encouraged to report any emergency city drainage concerns to Coquitlam’s Engineering and Public Works line or complete an online service request. Additionally, storm-related tree damage and flooding issues in city parks should be directed to Coquitlam Parks & Facilities Customer Service.
For roadway debris reports, the Engineering Customer Service line is available. In case of power outages, BC Hydro can be contacted for assistance and updates.
Brad Lofgren, Director of Public Works, is available for media inquiries at media@coquitlam.ca.
The name Coquitlam is derived from the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ word kʷikʷəƛ̓əm, meaning ‘Red Fish Up the River.’ The city respectfully acknowledges the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm traditional and ancestral lands it resides on.