Storms, waves, floods Imagine Powell River in 100 years What will Powell River look like 100 years from now? Government models suggest that sea levels will be a metre higher than they are now, and local winter storms will produce bigger waves. This will likely result in more ferry cancellations, flooded roads, and docks washed away. “Climate change is a global issue that all coastal communities need to come to terms with,” says Laura Roddan, manager of planning with the Powell River Regional District (PRRD). “It needs to be part of our decision-making for long-term planning, and the whole region needs to plan together on this.” To communicate about the coming impacts of climate change, the PRRD is holding a planning information event on Thursday, October 10, from 7 to 8:30 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion. Already, damage to properties along the coast is occurring more regularly, and is expected to worsen, according to Ryan Thoms, Manager of Emergency Services for the Powell River Regional District. “There’ll be more water, warmer water, and a bigger potential for storms. From an emergency side, this is significant. In the next 100 years we are looking at something unprecedented in modern history from sea level rise,” he said. “We’ve had heavy flooding at Myrtle Rocks and at the Beach Gardens. All you need is a king tide and good storm plus a southeaster [for the water to cover roads and properties].” Existing properties will need to be modified and retrofitted, Thoms noted, and new development needs to occur in tune with the changing environment. On October 10, two government speakers will share information on strategies coastal residents can use, to ensure their properties are more resilient to rising sea levels. The speakers are Thomas White, manager of science and adaption with the BC Ministry of Environment, and Scott Tinis, a consulting oceanographer to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. They’re developing a storm surge prediction system for the West Coast. And, they’ll be sharing a toolbox, developed by the province, for use by Sliammon First Nation, the City of Powell River and the Regional District. Locally, planners are well aware of climate change’s impacts. It’s not only are those who own ocean front property who are affected. Thoms’ colleague, PRRD planner Jason Gow, said, “We are [all] affected because we all use the coast for travel and pleasure. As well, most of our infrastructure is located within close proximity of the ocean.” Brandy Peterson Reliable answers to your real estate questions 604 344-1234 direct 1-877-485-4231 toll free powellriverrealestate.net brandypeterson@shaw.ca 4766 Joyce Ave HEAVY WINDS, HIGH SEAS: Big winter storms and high tides can produce huge waves causing emergency situations. Nicole Rumley Consultant Photos by Derek Poole nicole.rumley@investorsgroup.com (604) 485-2552 Celebrating 10 years in Powell River, thanks to all my clients and sub-contractors! I appreciate you more than words can say WORDS OF WORTH Linda Wegner Ph. (604) 483-9210 linda@wordsofworth.ca www.wordsofworth.ca Marie Eve Barnes • Eve Stegenga 604 414-9772 604 414-5991 4680 Willingdon Avenue Reiki Zen shiatsu Reflexology Aromatherapy Couples massage Four hands massage Pre and post natal massage Swedish & deep tissue massage 16 • www.PRLiving.ca
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