Maple Ridge, B.C., April 2, 2025 — The City of Maple Ridge is sending an early reminder to residents to prepare for the annual Spring Freshet. A Be Flood Ready Guide is being mailed this week to properties located near the Fraser River floodplain to help households understand flood risks and how to prepare.
The four-page guide provides important information about freshet conditions, flood preparedness tips, and emergency planning resources.
What is a Freshet?
The freshet refers to the annual spring snowmelt that occurs when rising temperatures cause mountain snowpack to melt rapidly. The increased runoff flows into rivers and streams, including the Fraser River, and can result in higher water levels and the potential for flooding in low-lying areas.
“The freshet season is an annual event in our region, and it’s important that residents are prepared,” said Fire Chief Dave Samson. “The recent storms and rainfall events have shown us how quickly conditions can change. Being informed and ready is the best way to keep your family, pets and property safe.”
The Be Flood Ready guide includes:
- Information about flood risks and how freshet conditions can affect the community.
- An overview of the City’s flood response plan.
- A map of the Fraser River floodplain.
- Tips on creating an emergency plan, assembling an emergency kit, and staying informed.
- Step-by-step instructions on what to do before, during, and after a flood.
- Details on where to access emergency information and alerts.
Residents are urged to review the guide, create an emergency plan, gather supplies, and ensure all family members know what to do during a flood or evacuation.
Free Emergency Preparedness Workshops
The City offers free Be Emergency Ready workshops at the Albion Community Centre (24165 104 Ave.) and the Maple Ridge Public Library to further support residents. The workshops cover flood preparedness, building an emergency kit, and a family emergency plan.
“These workshops give residents the tools and knowledge they need to be ready when an emergency happens,” said Edd Bennett, the City’s Emergency Program Manager. “Whether it’s flooding, wildfires, or power outages, being prepared makes all the difference.”
Workshop dates and registration details are available at MapleRidge.ca/EmergencyReadiness.
Flood Readiness Efforts
The City is committed to reducing flood risks and ensuring public safety through various efforts:
- Daily monitoring of weather, river levels, and snowpack.
- Regular inspection and maintenance of dikes, pump stations, and drainage systems.
- Infrastructure upgrades, including bridge improvements and debris removal in key waterways.
- Coordination with provincial and federal agencies on emergency planning and response.
Be Prepared for Emergencies of All Kinds
Flooding and severe weather events are becoming more common. All residents are encouraged to:
- Know the Risks – View more information and flood maps at MapleRidge.ca/Flood
- Make a Plan – Create a family emergency plan, including pet arrangements.
- Gather Supplies – Ensure you have enough supplies to last 72 hours to one week.
For the latest weather alerts and forecasts, visit Weather.GC.ca and the BC River Forecast Centre's at Gov.BC.ca/RiverForecast.
Sign up for updates through the Alert Maple Ridge app at MapleRidge.ca/Alert. For more information on emergency readiness, contact EmergencyProgram@MapleRidge.ca.