The B.C. government has requested federal military support in dealing with the flooding situation.
Canadian Air Force assets have already been involved in rescues over the past two days, including at Highway 7 in Agassiz where hundreds were trapped between two slides.
Minister of Public Safety Mike Farnworth issued a statement Tuesday night on the heels of Abbotsford’s urgent evacuations of the Sumas Prairie.
“The city has indicated that conditions within the Sumas Prairie have escalated and pose a significant risk to life due to the imminent failure of the Barrowtown Pump Station,” Farnworth said.
“This evening, I have been in continual contact with Henry Braun, mayor of Abbotsford. Emergency Management BC has been working with Abbotsford Emergency Management staff and the Abbotsford Police Department.”
Farnworth said the province is supporting Abbotsford in any way possible, including offering emergency notification capabilities.
“I have also been in contact with Bill Blair, federal Minister of Emergency Preparedness, to request federal assistance on this incident and the flooding situation in general. This includes Canadian Armed Forces ground and air support.”
Farnworth echoed Abbotsford officials in asking residents to not stay behind for livestock or property.
Premier John Horgan spoke with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Tuesday. A call readout states Trudeau pledged to support British Columbians “with any federal resources required, from short-term assistance – such as providing air support – to long-term rebuilding efforts.”
