Glacial lake outburst triggers flooding northeast of Pemberton
An evacuation order remains in place due to the threat of flooding
By Cheryl Chan
Last updated 1 day ago
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An evacuation order remains in place for properties in a Sea to Sky community northeast of Pemberton after a glacial lake burst its banks, triggering flooding in the area.
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Officials are warning residents and visitors to stay away from nearby waterways as the glacial lake at the edge of Place Glacier has burst, sending debris and floodwaters through Place Creek and other waterways.
In an advisory issued Tuesday, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District confirmed an “outburst is underway.”
“Hazardous debris floods are expected in Place Creek and downstream water channels, with the potential for elevated water levels, erosion, and unstable stream banks,” it said.
Officials say flows are expected to be comparable to the 2024 outburst flood and greater than those recorded during last year’s event.
The floodwaters were expected to peak late on Canada Day. Residents and the public are advised to avoid Place Creek, Poole Creek, and Gates Lake until the outburst has ended and staff is able to assess conditions.
About two dozen homes in the Gates Lake and Poole Creek areas were ordered evacuated last Thursday as officials warned of the potential for flooding. A state of local emergency has been declared.
