Information Bulletin
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – With storm season approaching and expectations of record-breaking rainfall in the months ahead, the District of Saanich is proactively taking steps to mitigate the impacts of flooding and weather-related issues and urges residents to stay informed about potential weather-related issues. 

In-addition to maintaining day-to-day operations, Saanich Public Works and Parks staff have begun inspecting and maintaining drainage infrastructure such as catch basins, culverts, ditches, storm sewer mains, outfalls, and other critical drainage assets—particularly in known low-lying and flood-prone areas. This work coincides with longer term infrastructure projects that are designed to create a system more resilient to adverse weather. 

Additional winter preparation work that is underway includes:  

• Clearing debris such as leaves, sediment, litter, and vegetation from priority drainage routes so runoff can move safely through the system during heavy rainfall. 

• Reviewing past flooding locations for improvements and following up on service requests to prioritize proactive maintenance and response readiness. 

• Preparing emergency response capacity, including confirming equipment availability, such as vacuum trucks, pumps, barricades, signage, and establishing on-call coverage and escalation procedures for significant storm events. 

• Monitoring weather and water levels and conditions, including tracking stream and drainage-system conditions, tide information where relevant, and localized reports to anticipate upcoming weather.

Anticipating climate changes 

Saanich’s climate is changing rapidly. While milder winters have been typical for communities in our region, climate change is bringing new challenges for our community. Larger rain events in the winter (also known as atmospheric rivers) and hotter, drier summers are making us all more aware of how climate change impacts our community, infrastructure and natural areas.

To help mitigate these impacts, along with daily operations and ongoing maintenance, Saanich is prioritizing several long-term actions to help address the future increased risk of flooding from climate change and extreme weather events. 

These projects include: 

• Building more green infrastructure such as tree planting and rain gardens, that help manage stormwater and pollution. 

• Developing Integrated Stormwater Management Plans that include projected climate changes and actions to reduce flood risk (such as upgraded storm drains, pumping stations and culverts). 

• Using climate projections to inform our infrastructure projects and asset management plans and budgets. 

• Collecting and analyzing data, completing specific risk assessments and identifying actions to mitigate those risks (e.g. overland flood mapping, coastal flood adaptation strategies, and landslide risk assessments). 

• Saanich is working to restore wetlands such as Rithet’s Bog to help manage stormwater, pollution and support biodiversity.  

• Supporting the community to act with programs such as the Saanich Naturescape program, FireSmart program, and the Neighbour to Neighbour program.  

For more information about the actions Saanich and community can take to be more resilient to climate change, visit Climate Adaptation | District of Saanich 

Protecting your home 

While the District takes many steps to ensure our community and infrastructure is protected, there are many things that residents can do to mitigate seasonal impacts. 

Some of these simple steps can include: 

• Remove leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage.

• Seal potential water entry points and regularly check plumbing.

• Keep gutters, downspouts, and storm drains free of obstruction.

• Clear private catch basins and drainage paths. 

• Avoid placing leaves or yard waste on streets, report blocked drains or localized flooding promptly.

• Shut off exterior faucets & store hoses. 

Should you experience flooding on streets or sidewalks, call 250-475-5599.  

Windstorms and power outages 

In anticipation of potential windstorms, be cautious of falling branches and power lines. Report downed lines to BC Hydro at 1-800-224-9376. For issues in parks or streets, contact Saanich Parks at 250-475-5522.

Power outages may last longer during severe weather, so ensure you have supplies like a flashlight, blankets, and a fully charged phone. Most heating systems, including gas and oil systems, require electricity to operate. Avoid using indoor heating appliances meant for outdoor use. Our Emergency Program offers guidance on what to include in your emergency kits. Please look out for neighbours who might require assistance during outages. 

For more tips on safeguarding your home and to report outages, please contact BC Hydro or visit their website.

Stay informed

For updates and information, follow us on Facebook, Bluesky and Instagram. Residents can report issues at saanich.ca/Report.

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Media Contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca