Nov 15, 2021

UPDATE: Town of Ladysmith update on response to heavy rainfall

Town of Ladysmith crews are responding across the community this morning following an extreme rainfall event that has caused highway closures and incidents of localized flooding.

Residents are advised to download the Cowichan Alert app to receive emergency notifications: https://www.cvrd.ca/3369/Emergency-Alert-System

Trans-Canada Highway closure

As late Monday afternoon, the Trans-Canada Highway is closed in both directions. between Mays Rd and Mt Sicker Rd. There is no detour available around the area at this time.Additionally, the highway is closed southbound at Henry Road. 

Check the DriveBC website for full details and the most up-to-date information:

https://www.drivebc.ca/mobile/map/map.html?l=roadcond&l=incident&l=currentplanevent

Avoid Local Parks and Trails


Ladysmith residents are strongly encouraged at this time to avoid use of our local trail system such as the Holland Creek Trail and stay out of all treed areas.  

The rainfall has cause the ground to become heavily saturated creating a high risk for erosion. High winds are in the forecast for Monday afternoon and trees may be at risk of being uprooted.

Furthermore, a section of the Holland Creek Trail below the Dogwood Dip is currently under water as well as the low lying area on the East side below the stairs leading from the RCMP detachment.

Parks crews are conducting a full assessment to determine any other potential danger areas. 

The Town is also aware that the stream in Kinsmen Park/Brown Drive Park is over the bank and water is fast moving in this area.  Please stay a safe distance back and do not approach the bank.

Ladysmith infrastructure

Infrastructure Services crews are sandbagging areas where localized flooding has occurred. Additionally, they are checking catch basins and monitoring culverts to ensure our infrastructure is functioning under the increased pressure.

To report any issues, please phone Infrastructure Services: 250-245-6445.

The first day of the Fall Yard Waste collection set for Monday has also been suspended due to the highway closure. Watch our website and social media for updates on any further delays.

CVRD emergency response

The Cowichan Valley Regional District has activated a Regional Emergency Operations Centre in response to the flooding and ongoing evacuations.  A State of Local Emergency has been declared for some areas within the Cowichan Valley Regional District, the Municipality of North Cowichan, City of Duncan, Cowichan Tribes, Halalt First Nation and Penelakut Tribe

Visit the CVRD’s website for full details: https://www.cvrd.ca/

Helpful links during an emergency incident:

 

For the latest news and updates, visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca, as well as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also receive up-to-date information in your email inbox by subscribing to the Town’s newsletter.