Zeballos declares state of local emergency due to flooding

The Village of Zeballos and the Strathcona Regional District have declared a state of local emergency following heavy rainfall that caused significant flooding and raised the risk of landslides. An evacuation order is in effect for specific properties on Maquinna Avenue and Pandora Crescent, while an evacuation alert has been issued for residents on Ferris Road.

Ehattesaht First Nation Chief Simon John reported that heavy rain began during the night, leading to flooding by early Friday morning. He noted that a debris blockage above residential areas poses a potential risk of releasing. The flooding is reportedly linked to a 2018 wildfire that burned the mountainside above the village.

Residents in the Pandora, Gold Valley, and Reno Roads areas are currently encouraged to shelter in place. The Strathcona Regional District has activated its emergency operations centre and is actively monitoring the situation to prioritize public safety.