Atmospheric river brings flooding, evacuations to southern B.C.

Heavy rain driven by an atmospheric river has triggered flooding, evacuations and widespread travel disruptions across southern British Columbia.

The Fraser Valley has been among the hardest hit, where swollen rivers and saturated ground forced evacuation orders and alerts in several communities, including areas of Abbotsford.

Runoff from intense rainfall, combined with already saturated soil, caused rivers and streams to exceed capacity.

Transportation routes connecting the Lower Mainland to the Interior were also affected. Sections of major highways were closed or restricted due to flooding, debris flows and the risk of landslides.

No serious injuries had been reported as of Saturday, but officials cautioned that hazards such as fast-moving water, unstable slopes and damaged roadways continue to pose risks.