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The Government of Yukon (YG) has issued a High Water Advisory for the Porcupine River.
This advisory is based on observations made by hydrologists of upstream tributaries and it is currently anticipated that breakup of the Porcupine River will occur in four to eight days.
Given the potential for flooding, YG will upgrade the High Water Advisory to a Flood Watch when the ice breakup front progresses beyond the headwaters of the Porcupine River basin, as informed by satellite imagery and river ice monitoring flights.
As a small, fly-in community, flood readiness and response requires significant preparation. Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN), YG, and partner agencies, are working together to protect the community of Old Crow, and facilitate effective response and recovery.
Upcoming Work:
In accordance with Flood Preparedness and Response plans being developed by VGFN in collaboration with YG and the Government of Canada through Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs (CIRNAC), the following work will be proceeding over the coming days:
- continued set up of Tiger Dams, concrete blocks and pumps and hoses in Old Crow to be deployed to help protect critical infrastructure;
- launch of a robust 24/7 flood monitoring plan which will include regular monitoring of four critical sites in community as well as fly overs of the Porcupine River by YG hydrologists and VGFN representatives to observe breakup;
- continued cleanup of debris and contaminants around Old Crow;
- continued door-to-door discussions to share the evacuation plan and preparedness actions;
- increase of on-the-ground support as part of VGFN’s Emergency Response Team; and
- fuel haul to fill the tanks at the Old Crow Fuel Tank Farm.
As Old Crow prepares for a potential flood, residents and non-residents are asked to be prepared to take care of themselves and plan to help others including by having an emergency kit and evacuation plan ready. In addition, residents are encouraged to protect their valuables and to take photos of their property and belongings.
With a number of important cultural events coming up this week, VGFN is asking anyone choosing to travel to Old Crow at this time to 1) be prepared to change their plans if required and 2) to be prepared to take care of themselves in the event of a flood. This includes having an emergency kit ready so that you can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours without power or running water. The flood risk will continue to be monitored and if required these events may be postponed.
Stay informed on flood preparedness and response plans as well as ice breakup conditions through the following Facebook Pages, “Vuntut Gwitchin Government”, “Yukon Protective Services” and “Porcupine River Breakup 2024,” yukon.ca/emergencies, posters around Old Crow, or by stopping by the Administration Office.