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Floating island in Williston Reservoir

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-09-03 00:46 UTC → 2026-09-03 04:10 UTC · added removed

A large, tree-covered floating landmass, estimated at approximately 9,800 square metres, was identified in the Williston Reservoir in northern British Columbia. While initially met with skepticism by BC Hydro officials who questioned if footage was AI-generated, satellite imagery from July 21 confirmed the existence of the forested mass near Finlay Bay, roughly 100 kilometres west of the W. A. C. Bennett Dam. By August 5, satellite data indicated the island had vanished from its original location. BC Hydro officials clarified that the object had likely not sunk but had instead drifted approximately 30 kilometres toward the Peace Reach area. On August 31, the island was reportedly rediscovered in the Ospika River, which flows into Williston Lake. Experts suggest the formation is an unstable mat composed of driftwood, soil, and decaying organic matter that allowed vegetation to take root over time. The mass likely detached from the shoreline due to reservoir water levels reaching their highest capacity since 2012. Local boaters have been advised to avoid the formation due to its potential instability. By early September, BC Hydro confirmed the mystery of the moving landmass had been resolved. Using a combination of satellite imagery, small aircraft observations, and reports from boaters, officials tracked the island as it drifted. The formation formation, measuring approximately 70 metres wide and 140 metres long, has now come to rest against the shoreline on the Ospika Arm of the reservoir. Scientists are currently studying the phenomenon to understand how such vegetated islands form and move. Officials continue to advise that the structure is potentially flimsy and dangerous, recommending that onlookers maintain a safe distance.

Versions

  1. 2026-09-03 04:10 UTC Floating island in Williston Reservoir
  2. 2026-09-03 00:46 UTC Floating island in Williston Reservoir
  3. 2026-09-02 22:47 UTC Floating island in Williston Reservoir
  4. 2026-09-02 17:23 UTC Floating island in Williston Reservoir

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