Investigations continue at Old Fort Road landslide

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Evacuation orders are still in effect for the Old Fort area, as a slow-moving landslide continues to remain active. 

According to a Facebook post by the Peace River Regional District published shortly after 2 p.m. on April 21st, an evacuation order issued on April 20th is still in effect, as there is “no safe road access to or from” the Old Fort area.

“The road has significantly shifted, and is not safe for travel,” the post stated. 

“Emergency services are currently unable to safely access the area, and essential supplies cannot be delivered at this time.”

According to the post, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit is responsible for the roadway, and experts will continue to assess the situation. 

“They report that while the landslide continues to be active, no timeline for restoration of access can be estimated,” the PRRD stated. 

In a press release issued on April 21st, the regional district described it as a “rapidly evolving situation,” with decisions being made “in real time based on changing conditions and expert assessments.”

“A coordinated evacuation was carried out last night [April 20th] during a limited period when emergency crews and the Ministry of Transportation and Transit determined it was safe to provide access. This allowed residents to leave safely with support in place,” the PRRD said. 

The regional district stated some residents might still be in the area, and as conditions continue to be assessed, guidance is “being provided based on safety.”

Evacuated residents can receive support from Emergency Support Services at the Pomeroy Sport Centre in Fort St. John at 9324 96th Street. Services can also be accessed by calling 250-263-3109, and assistance will be available until the evacuation order is lifted. 

The PRRD stated the next update would be provided by the ministry and the regional district at 5 p.m. on April 21st, “or sooner if new information becomes available.” 

DriveBC continues to reflect the road closure, and states the next update is expected at 11 a.m., April 22nd. 

To read the complete update, see below.