Glacial lake outburst triggers flooding near Pemberton
The glacial lake at Place Glacier has burst its banks, sending debris and floodwaters through Place Creek. About two dozen homes remain evacuated.
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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.
The glacial lake at the edge of Place Glacier has burst, sending debris and floodwaters through Place Creek and other waterways. The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District confirmed an "outburst is underway" and warned that "hazardous debris floods are expected in Place Creek and downstream water channels, with the potential for elevated water levels, erosion, and unstable stream banks."
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 on Canada Day, July 1. 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 after officials warned of the potential for flooding. A state of local emergency has been declared.
