State of emergency issued amid Peace River flood warning

Peace River, Alta. (Source: PeaceRiver.ca)

The Town of Peace River has issued a state of local emergency following an escalating flood warning.

The alert, issued at 4:49 p.m. on Thursday, is for everyone from the Highway 2 bridge to 104 Avenue.

Residents are being urged to prepare to evacuate on short notice.

A state of emergency was declared an hour later.

“This step gives the town additional authority to act quickly and take any necessary measures to protect residents, property, and critical infrastructure,” the town wrote in a social media post.

The town says the alert was issued because of an ice jam at the mouth of the Smoky River.

“In the best-case scenario, the ice holds in place and gradually melts. If that happens, we would remain in a heightened monitoring period until the ice clears,” said an earlier Peace River social media post.

“That may take the next four to five days, as the Peace River ice front is still upstream of town.

“If you live in a low-lying area, do not let your guard down. Please continue to stay prepared, keep your emergency bag ready, and keep a close eye on updates.”

Residents can visit the town’s website for the most up-to-date information.