Receding floodwaters leave fewer than a dozen Abbotsford properties on evacuation order

Heavy rain and powerful winds threaten Metro Vancouver and other parts of B.C. in the aftermath of severe flooding in the Fraser Valley. Andrew Johnson reports

Fewer than a dozen properties remain subject to an evacuation order in Abbotsford, after the city downgraded another 25 properties in Sumas Prairie to evacuation alerts on Tuesday.

There are now just 11 properties subject to evacuation orders, with 474 on evacuation alert. The remaining orders apply to parcels on Angus Campbell, Kenny and York roads, according to the city’s interactive map.

Those on evacuation alert must still be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice, should conditions change, the city said in its afternoon update.

Authorities have been conducting “rapid damage assessments” on properties with houses affected by the flooding that began last week.

Of the assessed properties downgraded from evacuation order to evacuation alert on Tuesday, nine were assessed as “green,” meaning re-entry is permitted, and six were assessed as “yellow,” meaning access is restricted subject to conditions posted on the assessment.

“Assessments were done on the outer structure of homes only, not the inside or other buildings on the property, such as sheds or barns,” the city said in its statement.

“Upon returning to their property, residents may want to have their home and other structures further assessed with support of their insurer. Resources and guidance for residents are available on the return home information page."

Several roads remain closed in the Sumas Prairie area, and the city advised drivers to “follow traffic control and avoid the area if possible.” Road closures are listed on the city’s website.