An evacuation alert issued for approximately 30 properties in the Morley Creek area at 10 Mile, between Sitkum Creek and Kokanee Creek due to a mudslide has been lifted.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay announced around 4:40 p.m. Monday that “upon recommendation by subject matter experts,” they were cancelling the alert.
The RDCK activated its emergency operations centre in response to the event.
“We issued the evacuation alert as a precaution yesterday, since the weather didn’t allow us to do a thorough assessment of Morley Creek at the time, and we wanted to make sure we could properly assess any remaining risk to area residents,” said Chris Johnson, the emergency operations centre Director.
“Today, a flight over the entirety of the Creek was completed and it was determined that it was unlikely an event of similar or greater size is imminent.”
Water access has been affected for water license holders in the area. Nine properties have been identified as being damaged due to the debris flood, but no structural damage or injury to persons has been reported. Debris on Highway 3A and roads in the area is being addressed by highway maintenance contractors.
“This kind of event is a natural occurrence for steep creeks in our region, and residents should remain aware of their surroundings and prepared to act when an emergency occurs,” Johnson said. “We would like to thank area residents for their cooperation and patience. We also recognize the work of first responders and highway crews for all their efforts in dealing with this event.”
