THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout — Squamish-Lillooet Regional District
A glacier outburst near Pemberton, B.C., is driving rising water and debris downstream. Officials urge residents and visitors to avoid nearby waterways.
Glacier Outburst Gathers Strength Near Pemberton
A powerful glacier outburst near Pemberton, B.C. continues to send huge volumes of water and debris downstream, while officials warn that river flows are expected to reach their highest point on Monday.
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) says the event has moved well into its rapid drawdown stage. As a result, fast-moving water continues to surge through local creeks and waterways.
Because conditions remain dangerous, authorities urge everyone to stay away from Place Creek, Poole Creek, Gates Lake, and other downstream channels connected to Place Glacier, located about 150 kilometres north of Vancouver.
Evacuation Order Remains in Place
An evacuation order has remained in effect for homes near the affected waterways since late June. Officials introduced the order after growing concerns that the glacier-fed lake could release a large volume of water and threaten nearby properties.
Even though crews continue to monitor the situation, the risk has not yet passed. Therefore, residents must continue to follow all emergency instructions.
Current Event Mirrors 2024 Glacier Flood
The glacier lake has burst before. In 2024, about 1.2 million cubic metres of meltwater mixed with sediment rushed downstream, damaging homes and surrounding land.
Officials expect this year’s event to produce a similar amount of water. Because of that, they continue to warn people about strong currents, floating debris, erosion, and unstable creek banks.
Experts Monitor Conditions on the Ground
Technical specialists are closely tracking water levels and carrying out ground inspections to assess changing conditions.
During inspections on Sunday, crews found overland flooding and much stronger flows in Poole Creek. They also recorded rising water levels near the Poole Creek Road culvert, showing that the outburst continues to affect the area.
Officials say they will keep watching the situation and provide updates as conditions change.
Public Asked to Stay Away from Hazard Zones
Although Pemberton Portage Road remains open and there are no travel restrictions at this time, officials strongly discourage anyone from visiting the affected area to watch the glacier outburst.
Instead, residents and visitors should avoid Place Creek, Gates Lake, and nearby waterways until authorities confirm that conditions are safe.
Emergency officials stress that powerful water flows can change without warning. Staying away from the area remains the safest choice while the glacier outburst continues.
