by westcoastjan
www.cheknews.ca/declares-state-of-emergency-amid-mass-flooding-913247/
Premier John Horgan has officially declared a state of emergency in British Columbia following historic rainfall, flooding and landslides that have forced thousands of people from their homes.
“The last few days have been incredibly difficult for British Columbians as we face yet another natural disaster,” said Premier Horgan in a live press conference on Wednesday.
According to Horgan, the order will preserve basic access to services and supplies for communities across the province.
Along with the state of emergency, Horgan says the government intends to bring in travel restrictions while also ensuring that transportation of essential goods and medical services are able to reach the communities that need them.
“Please do not hoard items,” stated Horgan. “What you need your neighbours need as well. We’re confident we can restore our supply chains in a quick and orderly manner provided we act as we have been acting over the past two years.”
The state of emergency is initially in effect for 14 days and may be extended or rescinded as necessary.
Multiple highways remain closed across B.C. as a result of the severe weather that hit earlier this week and the government continues to push the message to not travel unless it is essential.
“This is not the time for leisure travel. Our transportation infrastructure is crippled and we need to ensure that it comes back online as quickly as possible and we are prioritizing essential access,” says Solicitor General Mike Farnworth. ….
Edit, adding more links to show the devastation and implications:
globalnews.ca/news/8381409/thousands-animals-died-bc-floods-euthanized-help/
globalnews.ca/news/8380864/abbotsford-bc-farmers-rescue-cattle-floodwaters/
globalnews.ca/news/8381252/chilliwack-flood-update/
globalnews.ca/news/8381003/bc-flooding-new-photos-coquihalla-highway-damage/
FYI the Coquihalla highway is THE major highway, like an Interstate, from the Vancouver/Lower Mainland region to the interior. If is is closed for any significant amount of time it will further devastate the already badly faltering supply chain. It is an OMG situation for sure.