Stranded people and sheep rescued on Vancouver Island as floodwaters rise

Rescue crews evacuated stranded residents and carried four sheep to safety after rising floodwaters prompted a local state of emergency in the Comox Valley.

Rising floodwaters on eastern Vancouver Island left some Comox Valley residents stranded on Friday until rescue crews transported them to safety. Volunteers from Comox Valley Search and Rescue also carried four sheep and helped a dog during the response. Officials said the Comox Valley Regional District, the City of Courtenay and the K'ómoks First Nation declared a local state of emergency early Friday because of rising waters and risk to property. A flood warning was issued for Dove Creek and nearby areas, and officials reported that high river flows are expected across the coastal region over the coming days. Known details: - Rescue crews responded to homeowners along Headquarters Road after rising waters left some people stranded. - Volunteers from Comox Valley Search and Rescue carried four sheep and assisted with at least one dog rescue. - The Comox Valley Regional District, the City of Courtenay and the K'ómoks First Nation declared a local state of emergency citing rising waters and risk to property. - A flood warning is in effect for Dove Creek and nearby areas, and officials said high river flows are expected in the coming days; officials also urged anyone in immediate danger to call 911. Summary: Rescue teams evacuated stranded residents and animals and local authorities declared a state of emergency. Flood warnings remain in effect and officials reported high river flows are expected over the coming days; further procedural steps were not announced.