Community Update 13: Place Glacier Hazard

This is Community Update #13 for the Place Glacier Outburst Flood Hazard located near the Gates Lake and Poole Creek communities in Electoral Area C.

The SLRD is encouraging residents of the Gates Lake and Poole Creek communities.
to take proactive steps to prepare for potential flooding and debris hazards during the 2026 freshet and outburst period.

To support community preparedness efforts, the SLRD has set up a free 24/7 self-serve sandbagging station beginning at noon on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Gates Lake Community Park on Pemberton Portage Road.

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The station will provide sand and empty sandbags. Community members are asked to bring scissors to cut the bag bundles and a shovel fill the bags. Appropriate protective equipment, including sturdy boots, gloves, and eye protection are recommended. Filling sandbags is easier with a partner and residents are encouraged to fill only the number of bags reasonably required to help protect their property.

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Sandbags can help redirect shallow flowing water away from buildings and vulnerable areas when installed properly. Prepare sandbags early instead of waiting until flooding is actively occurring. For information about how to build an effective sandbag dike watch the video below and visit the “Tips for safety near floodwaters, preparing effective sandbags” release on the Province of BC website.

The station is expected to remain in place, stocked as required, throughout June and may be extended depending on conditions and community need.

The SLRD continues to work with the Province of British Columbia, Lil’wat Nation, N’Quatqua, and technical experts to support ongoing emergency preparedness, hazard monitoring, and mitigation efforts related to the Place Glacier hazard.

Upcoming Place Glacier Townhall
A reminder - the SLRD will host a hybrid in-person and virtual Townhall on Tuesday, June 2 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to provide an update on upcoming emergency berm repair work. For more information see the full notice on the SLRD website.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and ensure they are signed up to receive emergency notifications and updates:
SLRD Alert  Area C email updates

Stay safe

• Avoid hazard zones – stay clear of steep gullies, alluvial fans, and historical/modelled debris flow paths. 
• Stay alert during intense rainfall – debris flows often occur during or shortly after heavy storms. 
• Listen to warnings – pay attention to local alerts from the SLRD, sirens, or weather bulletins.
• Do not camp or spend time in areas of identified debris flow hazard. Mapping provided in the Place Glacier Hazard Assessment Report will support identification of hazardous areas related to this hazard. 
• Watch for natural warning signs – sudden rumbling, snapping trees, or increased sediment-laden water flow can signal an incoming debris flow. Move to high ground immediately and know your evacuation plan.

Protect your home and property

• Store valuables and important documents in waterproof containers or on upper floors.
• Keep gutters and nearby storm drains clear of debris.
• Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home.
• Apply sealant around basement windows and ground-level doors where needed.
• Review your insurance coverage, including flood and sewer backup options.
• Ensure drainage around your property directs water away from foundations.
• For agricultural properties, have a plan in place for equipment and livestock if evacuation is required.
• Keep access routes clear – don’t block driveways or roads that emergency services might need.
• Create defensible space around properties – remove loose wood, debris, and objects that could be carried by flows.
• Educate your family and neighbors – ensure everyone knows the hazards and what to do in an emergency.

Prepare for an emergency

• Prepare Emergency Plans for your home, office and other locations.
• Build your household emergency kit and grab-and-go bag.
• Have an evacuation plan – know the fastest route to higher ground and practice it.
• Create a profile for Emergency Support Services (ESS) in advance.