Community Update 14: Place Glacier Hazard

This is Community Update #14 for the Place Glacier Outburst Flood Hazard located near the Gates Lake and Poole Creek communities in Electoral Area C.

On June 2, 2026, the SLRD hosted a Townhall to provide an update on emergency preparedness efforts, planned embankment repairs, hazard monitoring, and ongoing coordination with partners. A recording of the Townhall is available on the SLRD’s YouTube channel.

Stantec Updates
Emergency repair work is now underway to restore sections of the Place Creek embankment including regrading damaged slopes and replacing armouring rock (riprap) to strengthen the embankment ahead of the anticipated 2026 outburst period. These emergency repair works are a short-term solution. The embankment does not store water, regulate flow from the glacial lake, or eliminate the possibility of a future outburst flood causing realignment of the channel towards Gates Lake.

Conditions in Poole Creek were assessed on May 8, 2026. The culvert at Poole Creek Road is clear of debris and blockages, sediment aggradation was noted upstream of the culvert for ~500m and it was determined that sediment removal is not practical during freshet (high flows).

Place Glacier Hazard Monitoring Updates
The SLRD is working with Natural Resources Canada and the University of Northern British Columbia to install hazard monitoring equipment at Place Glacier. These devices will provide emergency management partners with ongoing information about conditions at the glacier and help track the growth of the ice-marginal lake over the coming weeks. With support from subject matter experts, this equipment will be used to inform emergency measures that may be required to protect public safety. The SLRD will continue to share updates about Place Glacier throughout the coming weeks as the situation develops.

Evacuation Alerts and Orders
Based on data gathered from the Place Glacier hazard monitoring equipment and consultation with subject matter experts, the SLRD will use the following thresholds to guide emergency  response activities:

• An Evacuation Alert may be issued if the glacial lake reaches approximately 24 metres in depth. 
• An Evacuation Order may be issued if the glacial lake reaches approximately 30 metres in depth. 
• These thresholds are intended to provide time for residents to prepare and respond before an outburst event occurs.

Regardless of whether an Evacuation Alert or Evacuation Order is in place, residents are reminded that water channels, streambanks, and low-lying areas in the area may present hazards before and after an outburst event and are encouraged to exercise caution.

Community Preparedness
A free 24/7 self-serve sandbagging station is now available for residents of the Gates Lake and Poole Creek communities at Gates Lake Community Park on Pemberton Portage Road.
Sand and empty sandbags are available on site. The station will remain stocked throughout June and replenished as required.  

• “Tips for safety near floodwaters, preparing effective sandbags” release on the Province of BC website.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and ensure they are signed up to receive emergency notifications and updates at www.slrd.bc.ca/slrdalert.

Provincial Coordination and Advocacy
The Place Glacier outburst flood hazard originates on provincially managed land; while the SLRD can undertake emergency response actions when there is an imminent risk to public safety, responsibility for long-term hazard management rests with the Province of British Columbia.

In 2026 the Province approved funding for embankment repairs and emergency preparedness measures but did not endorse the proposed long-term mitigation options put forward by Stantec. The Province also committed to contribute to the continued evaluation and monitoring of the hazard.

In May 2026, the Province introduced updates to the Emergency and Disaster Management Regulation that narrowed the scope of emergency management planning and risk assessment activities undertaken by regional districts on provincially managed land. The changes provide additional clarity regarding the Province's role in managing hazards on provincially managed land, including flood and landslide hazards such as Place Glacier. For more information about this see this news release on the Union of BC Municipalities’ website.

The SLRD recognizes that annual emergency response measures are not a long-term solution for the community or the Province. The SLRD will continue to work with all partners on emergency preparedness measures while advocating for a long-term approach to addressing the Place Glacier outburst flood hazard.

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.