‘State of local emergency’ in Dawson Creek extended again amid water concerns

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — Dawson Creek has extended its ‘state of local emergency’ (SOLE) until the first week of January as the city faces low water levels. 

According to a post on its website, the city announced it has renewed its SOLE until January 6th, 2026. 

Dawson Creek first declared SOLE in October due to declining water supply from the Kiskatinaw River. In October, the city announced there was only 150 days’ supply left, however the supply estimate increased to 180 days soon after. 

The city said its emergency operations team will continue to request SOLE renewals from the province as it enables Dawson Creek to access provincial support and take emergency measures as needed.

Although the area has seen heavy snowfall, it does not change the water situation in Dawson Creek, the statement said. 

However, it will help carry the city through to March and April as the spring runoff will help replenish the rivers and reservoirs. 

Dawson Creek’s water and environmental team will continue to monitor river flows, reservoir levels, snowpack conditions and weather forecasts. 

The city’s SOLE declaration has been extended multiple times, including in October, November and early December as well. 

Meanwhile, the city is looking for an alternative water source in the Peace River to meet the demand in Dawson Creek.