The city of Campbell River has declared a state of local emergency and formalized an evacuation order because the possibility of additional landslides poses an “existing or imminent threat” to people and property near the Island Highway.
There is potential risk for additional slope failure, said the order, signed Thursday by Mayor Kermit Dahl. The state of emergency applies to Island Highway South and Ash Street.
Geotechnical experts were called after two landslides on Tuesday night.
An examination has “highlighted matters in need of further investigation that may pose risks to the surrounding area,” the city said in a statement Thursday.
The landslide took place above the 700 block of Island Highway South following stormy and wet weather. A carport at one building was destroyed.
About 30 residents were evacuated Tuesday from two multi-family buildings. No one was injured.
“We recognize that a prolonged evacuation is difficult and that residents will be eager to get back into their homes,” said Drew Hadfield, acting city manger.
“Our priority is public safety and, while we are working diligently to get people home as soon as possible, we must first ensure that it is safe to do so.”
Declaring a state of local emergency is a temporary measure. It lasts for seven days, unless the city cancels it earlier, and empowers city staff to “do all acts and implement all procedures that are considered necessary to prevent or to alleviate the effects of the emergency.”
Campbell River staff will monitor the landslide area.
The evacuation order issued Thursday applies to 738 Island Highway South, the structure most affected by the landslides. A large pile of debris came to rest behind the building.
The order will be reviewed by city staff today.
An evacuation alert has also been issued for properties near 738 Island Highway South. This includes the adjacent 758 multi-family building, where the rear section was also evacuated on Tuesday.
The city is working with the Strathcona Regional District to help residents who were evacuated. Many are staying with family and friends. About 10 are in local hotels.
A reception area for those in the evacuation areas will be available in the Dogwood Room of Strathcona Gardens Recreational Complex, 225 S. Dogwood St., between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Friday.
Residents who evacuated and need services can call 250-203-1972 or email [email protected].
