🌧️ High 6°C

Good morning.

You don’t usually see us in your inbox on a Tuesday—but given how quickly conditions are changing, we wanted to share a brief update to keep everyone informed.

This morning’s issue includes the latest verified updates from local authorities in Abbotsford, including changes to evacuation orders, road reopenings, and ongoing cleanup efforts across the Fraser Valley. Conditions are improving in some areas, but officials continue to urge caution as more rain is forecast.

We’ll continue sharing updates as needed.

– William

By the way, an FVC Insider membership is still 50% off – the more members we get, the more likely we can bring back daily coverage.

Traffic & Weather

🌤 Local forecast: Langley | Chilliwack | Abbotsford | Hope | Mission

🚘 Driving today? Check the current traffic situation via Google, and find DriveBC’s latest updates.

🛣 Click here for links to road cameras across the Fraser Valley, including those for the Coquihalla, Highway 7, Hope-Princeton, Fraser Canyon, and Highway 1 in Langley and Abbotsford.

Need to Know

Flood Update: What to know this morning

Based on information provided by the City of Abbotsford throughout Monday, conditions continue to improve, though officials caution that forecasted heavy rain means the situation remains fluid.

An orange-level weather alert for heavy rain remains in effect from Environment Canada, alongside a Flood Warning for the Sumas River from the BC River Forecast Centre. The City’s Emergency Operations Centre remains active and continues to closely monitor river levels, dikes, roads, and weather conditions.

A key development is that overflow from the Nooksack River has stopped, and current forecasts indicate the river is not expected to reach flood stage at North Cedarville.

By 3:47pm Monday, Evacuation Orders had been downgraded for 39 additional properties, leaving 36 properties under Evacuation Order and 449 properties under Evacuation Alert. Earlier in the day, Evacuation Orders were also downgraded for Castle Fun Park and the Clarion Hotel and Conference Centre. Residents under Evacuation Alert should remain prepared to evacuate if conditions change.

Rapid Damage Assessments continue to support safe returns. Of homes assessed after being downgraded, 292 were cleared (green), 16 were flagged for caution (yellow), and none were deemed unsafe (red).

Many roads have reopened, though some remain closed or restricted. Highway 1 is expected to fully reopen eastbound, and power remains out in parts of Sumas Prairie, with BC Hydro crews on site.

Residents are encouraged to monitor updates at abbotsford.ca.

In Other News

🌲 Chilliwack RCMP confirm a woman has died after a tree fell on her during a windstorm, highlighting dangerous conditions from recent severe weather.

🚗 The City of Abbotsford says it has reopened more than a dozen roads in the Sumas Prairie as floodwaters recede and conditions improve following recent flooding.

🌧️ Flood cleanup is underway in the Fraser Valley as water from recent storms recedes, though heavy rain and flood risks persist for parts of B.C. rivers and surrounding areas.

🚨 A man was arrested in connection with a fatal stabbing in Abbotsford over the weekend, though police say no charges have yet been laid and the investigation continues.

📈 FortisBC has received approval to raise natural gas rates by more than 10 per cent for Abbotsford and Chilliwack customers starting January 1, increasing typical household bills next year.

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Winter is on its way!

Preparation is key for resiliency. Even during the winter, outdoor tasks can make a big difference. Clearing gutters and roof valleys of debris helps to prevent water and snow buildup while reducing the risk of embers finding a place to ignite next season.

In the Valley

Updated weekly: Your guide to Fraser Valley holiday events

Holiday magic is happening all across the Fraser Valley this season. From tree lighting ceremonies and festive markets to concerts, parades, and family-friendly celebrations, there's no shortage of ways to embrace the spirit of the season. We've just updated this list with even more events—check out the new additions and keep sending us your community happenings to include!

What’s coming up →

🗓 Things to do

District 1881 Santa's Workshop: Runs until December 23 @ District 1881, Chilliwack
Photos with Santa by donation. Tuesday-Thursday 12-8pm, Friday 12-8pm, Saturday & Sunday 12-7pm (Sunday opens Nov 30). $40 Friday-Sunday. Pets welcome on Wednesdays.

Glow Gardens Langley: The Magic Toy Shop: Runs until December 31 @ Glow Gardens Langley
Step inside an illuminated toy shop with themed lands, train rides, and festive performances.

Merry & Bright at Martini Town: Runs until December 31 @ Martini Town, Langley
Wander through a film studio backlot transformed into a festive wonderland with food, local musicians, and artisan vendors.

Have an event to tell us about? Email [email protected].

Catch up

That’s it!

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