Evacuation orders persist for Shuswap residents

SHUSWAP – An evacuation order remains in effect for seven Shuswap properties located near a large debris flow.

Residents living within 50 metres on either side of McIntyre Creek near Salmon Arm have been on evacuation order since Wednesday afternoon when debris clogged the creek. The order was issued as a safety precaution against potential flooding and sliding.

The Ministry of Transportation was on site Thursday conducting repairs on Sunnybrae Canoe Point Road, where the debris flow occurred. The area is about 15 km from the Trans Canada Highway.

Cathy Semchuk, an information officer with the Columbia Shuswap Regional District says a geomorphologist is investigating the situation today.

“The (evacuation) order will be maintained until a detailed risk assessment has been received from the consultant,” Semchuk said.

The damaged portion of Sunnybrae Canoe Point Road will remain under 24 hour traffic control while crews continue to repair it.

Due to the instability of the area and other safety concerns, the public is asked to keep clear of the incident site and assist in lowering traffic flow until further notice.

Those residents requiring Emergency Support Services are asked to report to the Reception Centre located at #2-480 Harbour Front Drive NE, Salmon Arm.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Charlotte Helston at chelston@infotelnews.ca or call 250-309-5230. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.