Residents near Birken, northwest of Pemberton, B.C., are anxiously waiting as a growing glacial lake threatens to flood their properties for the third year in a row.
Twenty-four properties remain under evacuation alert as water continues to build behind Place Glacier. Officials warn an evacuation order could be issued once the lake reaches a certain level.
Homeowners Rick King and Don Coggins say flooding over the past two years has damaged their land and fear this year’s outburst could be even worse. They are calling for stronger flood prevention measures, including creek improvements and efforts to reduce water buildup in the lake.
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District says work has been done to strengthen a damaged embankment, but residents worry the changes could send more floodwater toward their properties.
A proposal to use explosives to help drain the glacier was considered but rejected due to safety concerns. Local officials say the rapidly changing glacier highlights the growing risks communities face as glaciers continue to melt.
