Extreme Weather Update


Update - 1 December - 2:30pm
Environment Canada has ended the Special Weather Statement for Richmond. While the two larger intensity events did not largely impact Richmond, the city received consistent rainfall for the duration.

To respond to this weekend/early week/s rainfall events, additional staff were made available (and were on call), with equipment prepared.

Staff worked through the weekend and early week performing general flood patrol and system inspections, pump and storm crews worked to ensure catch basins, ditches and screens remained clear of debris to support flow and drainage.

Sandbags were made available by staff for residents who felt they might need them. While over 500 were collected, no structural flooding was reported. 24 service requests were received for minor water pooling

Thanks to everyone for doing your part in helping keep street storm drains clear and avoiding non-essential travel through BC.

Update - 30 November - 6:30pm

Dikes and pump stations continue to do their job.

Expect some minor ponding in the curb lanes as the storm continues. While there are no major road concerns at this time, please drive appropriately for the weather conditions.

King George Park is experiencing water accumulation by the washroom building. Staff are onsite, have applied sandbags and are pumping water away please avoid the area. If you experience water accumulation on your property, scroll down to the "Who to Call" section below if you wish to report it.

Update - 25 November - 10:00pm

The High Streamflow Advisory has been upgraded to a Flood Watch for the South Coast. Although this regional Flood Watch is in place, Richmond's extensive flood protection infrastructure is managing the extreme rain and rising water levels to maintain public safety. Please continue to exercise caution around fast flowing water (view the High Streamflow section under the Storm Safety Tips below).

Original News Release - 24 November 2021

Stay Safe With These Stormy Weather Tips

Richmond is currently subject to an Environment Canada Special Weather Statement calling for rain and wind. A high streamflow advisory is also in effect for the South Coast including Metro Vancouver, as per the BC River Forecast Centre.

Updates will be posted to this page and on the City’s social media channels.

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Who to Call

For minor water accumulation on your property, you can report it to the 24-hour City of Richmond Public Works Dispatch Line at 604-270-8721 or online through the City’s website: Report a Problem or Request a Service. You can also report traffic signals not working, as well as hazardous or downed trees on streets, sidewalks or parks.

For emergencies due to water or flooding, where personal safety or property is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If you see downed power lines, stay at least a bus-length (10 metres) away and call 9-1-1. Lines could be active.

For power outages, check the BC Hydro outage list, outage map or the @BCHydro Twitter account. If your outage isn't listed, call 1-800-BCHYDRO (1-800-224-9376) or *HYDRO (*49376) on your mobile phone to report the outage.

Water Pooling Concerns

Extreme rainfall can result in water accumulation on properties and streets. Residents can help prevent pooling and localized flooding by ensuring drainage systems around their property are clear and working:

  • Check the street storm drains, gutters and catch basins around your property and clear them of any leaves or debris.
  • Do not to rake leaves and other debris into culverts.

If you are in a low-lying area and your property is at an increased risk of flooding, sandbags are available at the Richmond City Works Yard, 5555 Lynas Lane.

  • IMPORTANT: Sandbags are available as a safety resource for those who NEED them. Take only what you think you need, be considerate of others and do not hoard. Traffic control and staff assistance will be present.
  • WATCH: Learn how to use sandbags with this helpful video.
Protecting Your Property With Sandbags

For more information on how to prepare/what to do during for possible flooding, visit Emergency Preparedness: Flooding.

Storm Safety Tips

  • Keep your emergency kit handy, as well as back-up phone chargers, flashlights and any other items you may need (ie. medication, food items).

High Winds

  • Be cautious as tree debris/loose objects may be tossed by winds and cause injury or damage. Use caution if near wooded parks.
  • On your own property, remember to secure items that may blow away and clear drains/gutters of leaves or other debris to help prevent flooding.

High Streamflow

  • River levels may rise and flows may be stronger. If it is windy out, unexpected waves can occur.
  • STAY CLEAR of fast flowing rivers and riverbanks. If you are near fast flowing water: stay alert, be careful and maintain a safe distance from the shorelines.
  • Keep children and pets (keep pets on a leash) away from shorelines and riverbanks.
  • There is an expected increase in logs and large woody debris. Please take caution if you are a marine vessel or waterside infrastructure operator.

On the Roads

Visibility is poor in poor weather – especially when it is dark. Always be alert, watch for all other road users and always be prepared to stop. Please take extra care and:

  • SLOW DOWN and drive for the conditions.
  • Turn your headlights/taillights on.
  • Leave generous stopping/following distance between vehicles.
  • Give yourself extra travel time to arrive at your destination safely.
  • If traffic signals are not working, follow the four-way stop procedure (it is the law).
  • Wear bright clothes, lights and reflectors if you are on foot or bike. BE SEEN.
  • Avoid driving through flood waters as much as possible.

Additional Resources

  • Follow your local news outlets and government sources (such as Environment Canada) for the most up to date information.
  • For more information on weather preparedness, visit Residents Guide to Winter Weather.
  • For a recap of the City’s response to the November 15 weather event, read the News Release - City Crews Out in Full Force
  • Government of British Columbia: 2021 Floods Information Page
  • Government of British Columbia: Storm and Severe Weather Support Line: 1-833-376-2452. Lines are open daily (translators available) from 7:30am to 5:00pm to answer questions related to emergency supports, financial assistance, insurance, mental health, travel, utilities, agriculture, hazardous goods and more.
  • Prepared BC for emergency preparedness guides and information