Flooding

Current Conditions

The BC River Forecast Centre is responsible for issuing flood watches and warnings for rivers around the province. A watch means flooding is possible, a warning means flooding will occur.

Stay informed with updates on current conditions in our community. Our Facebook and Twitter social media channels allow people to receive updates on their computers, tablets or smartphones.

Rainfall and River Level Monitoring

The City of Maple Ridge monitors rainfall amounts around the city and water levels in the Fraser River, north and south Alouette River and Kanaka Creek. We have developed a platform to share the information gathered by our three rainfall gauges and eight hydrometric (stream) gauges.

View live rainfall measurements and water levels

Further water level data can be found on:


Fraser River Freshet

Each year the snowfall along the Fraser River system melts as the seasons transition from winter to spring. The snowpack and river conditions are monitored by the BC River Forecast Centre and communities along the Fraser River have developed the Flood Response plans based on the observed levels, flow rates, as well as the forecasts for the network of gauges and data collection points in the river network.

 The City of Maple Ridge has a Fraser River Flood Plan that is connected to the data from the BC River Forecast centre. Should the conditions warrant, the City’s response plan includes:

  • Daily monitoring of weather forecasts and river levels; 
  • Patrolling, inspecting and maintaining dikes and pump stations;
  • Preparing and disseminating flooding and flood preparedness information to the public;
  • Liaising with other government and utility organizations;
  • Developing contingency plans; and
  • Updating the City’s evacuation plan as necessary.

Sign Up for Maple Ridge Alerts

The City has deployed Alerts Maple Ridge, powered by the Voyent Alert! application, to distribute information in the event of an emergency. Go to https://mapleridge.ca/alert to register today. 

North & South Alouette River Flood Risk Information

The City has exerted a lot of effort studying these two watercourses over the years culminating in the North Alouette and South Floodplain Analysis in 2016 and the completion of Integrated Stormwater Management Plans in 2021.  Further information on these efforts can be found at this link https://www.mapleridge.ca/2707

Stay on High Ground

We Are Surrounded by Rivers & Mountains That Can Cause Flooding

Maple Ridge is no stranger to rain, but, sudden and heavy rainfalls can pose a serious risk. Localized flooding can occur when water is unable to drain away, river levels may rise quickly and become dangerously fast, roads may become impassible, and combined with warm temperatures, melting snow pack can develop into landslides and debris flows on mountain sides and steep gullies. 
Floor Preparedness PDF

How to Prepare

  • Review Before an Emergency for general information on how to prepare.
  • Build or restock your Emergency Preparedness Kit.
  • Check local forecasts and consider the conditions, especially if you are planning to enjoy the trails and river systems.
  • Prepare your family plan and your property.
  • Check with an insurance agent on flood insurance for your home and business, and take a personal inventory of belongings.
  • Ensure roof gutters are clear and storm drains are free of debris such as leaves.
  • If you face a threatening flood situation, park vehicles away from streams and waterways, move electrical  appliances to upper floors and make sure to anchor fuel supplies. Listen to local officials if you are asked to evacuate.

During Flooding

  • If your home is near water, note if the water level begins to rise quickly.
  • Avoid getting close to fast moving water as banks may erode without warning.
  • Keep a close eye on children and pets as they may not understand the dangers.
  • Plan alternate routes before driving in the event that low lying roads become flooded. Slow down and provide yourself with extra time.
  • Never drive through moving water, even if you are familiar with the road. A vehicle can be swept away in as little as 12 inches of water.
  • Monitor the local media and have flashlights on hand in case the power goes out.

After Flooding

  • Check your property for damage and clear away debris from rain gutters and storm drains.
  • Even though the rain has stopped, waterways may still pose a risk. Be cautious until you are certain of the conditions.
  • If you have suffered from flood damage, contact your insurance company.
  • Download our General Flood Cleanup (PDF).

Recognize the Danger Signs

Heavy snow melt may contribute to landslides and dangerous debris in creeks and waterways. Be safe and don’t go down to watch the rushing water. If you notice trees beginning to lean and bend near your home, or cracks developing in the hillside, consult an engineer or contact local authorities.


If you live near a waterway, a change in water colour or rapid change in water level (especially a drop) could indicate a problem upstream. Call your local fire, police or public works department immediately if you suspect something out of the ordinary.


Sandbagging

It takes two people about one hour to fill and place 100 sandbags, giving you a one-foot-by-20-foot wall. Make sure you have enough sand, burlap, plastic bags, shovels and time to prepare properly. Watch this Sandbagging Tips video for helpful instructions. Download our How-To Sandbag (PDF).

Do You Live in the Floodplain?

A floodplain is land adjacent to a watercourse that is susceptible to flooding. A floodplain map delineates the area that can be expected to flood, on average, once every 200 years. This is called the 200-year flood. A 200-year flood can occur at any time in any given year; the indicated flood level may be exceeded; and portions of the floodplain can flood more frequently. Check either our North and South Alouette River Floodplain Map (PDF) or our Fraser River Floodplain Map (PDF) to find out whether you live in the floodplain.

Alouette River Inspection Request

To report any concerns regarding the Alouette River, please fill out the Alouette River Inspection Request Form (PDF) and return to the Operations Centre by email, mail or fax.

Weather and Utility Information