SQUAMISH-LILLOOET REGIONAL DISTRICT, B.C. – Authorities in the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District are advising residents and visitors to stay away from waterways feeding Place Creek, Poole Creek, Gates Lake, and adjacent channels due to rising floodwaters linked to a newly formed glacial lake near Place Glacier.
Officials said fast-moving water and debris are potential hazards as the lake continues to drain into surrounding streams and lakes. The district stressed that the public should avoid accessing the affected areas until further notice.
The situation centers on a glacial lake that has developed near Place Glacier, with authorities monitoring water levels and flow patterns as temperatures rise and seasonal melt progresses. Emergency management crews are assessing the risk to nearby communities and infrastructure, including roads and property that could be affected by surges or blockage from debris.
There was no reported loss of life at the time of the advisory, and no immediate requests for evacuations were issued. However, officials emphasized the dynamic nature of glacial melt events, noting that flood risks can escalate quickly with changing weather and snowmelt conditions.
Residents in the vicinity were urged to stay clear of all creeks and streams connected to the lake, avoid crossings near the water, and monitor official updates from the regional district and local emergency services. Authorities also advised keeping children and pets away from flood-prone banks, and ensuring that emergency contact information is readily available.
The regional district plans to provide additional information as the situation develops and cautions that conditions could change with little warning. Local road crews and watershed managers are coordinating with provincial agencies to mitigate any potential impacts on transportation corridors and public safety. Further updates are expected to be issued through official channels and the rss feed of the regional district.