The City of Fernie has activated an Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in the face of “significant mixed precipitation” in the forecast.
A winter storm warning from Environment Canada is in effect for BC’s interior. Hwy. 3 is predicted to receive 35-40 centimetres of snow from Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass up until Friday afternoon. Snow and rain is in the Weather Network forecast for the whole week.
READ MORE: Winter storm warning in effect for BC Interior
The EOC was put into effect on Thursday (Nov. 25). It is meant to “coordinate and respond to any potential hazards that may result from uncertain weather,” says a release on the City of Fernie website.
“Our Operations department and Engineers are working around the clock to protect critical infrastructure and the safety of our community as we navigate the recovery phase of last week’s storm.”
The release warns people to avoid all trails and dikes along the Coal Creek corridor and obey all closure signage for the sake of safety. Coal Creek has experienced “substantial bank erosion and continues to be monitored for vulnerability.”
Those experiencing a life-threatening emergency are urged to call 911. Those who see flooding leading to property damage are encouraged to report it to Fernie Fire and Emergency Services at 250-423-4226.
“A self-serve sandbag station is available at the corner of Railway Ave. and Ridgemont Ave. across from TJ’s Auto Body. Residents are advises to bring their own shovels.”
Tips on how to build a sandbag dike can be found on the City of Fernie website.
READ MORE: City secures $30k in emergency funding for remedial work at Coal Creek
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