Vancouver Island rescuers assisted people and animals after heavy rains

Comox Valley Search and Rescue and more than 30 volunteers helped 11 people and several animals out of flooded areas after heavy rains; the regional district declared a local state of emergency and some flood warnings were later downgraded while parks remained closed in Courtenay.

Heavy rains caused flooding on parts of Vancouver Island, prompting a local search and rescue response. Comox Valley Search and Rescue reported that more than 30 volunteers assisted people and animals in affected areas. The Comox Valley Regional District declared a state of local emergency and issued evacuation orders for a campground and some homes. The B.C. River Forecast Centre later eased several flood warnings as rainfall decreased. Known details: - Comox Valley Search and Rescue reported it helped 11 people and several animals get out of flooded areas. - The regional district declared a state of local emergency and issued evacuation orders for a campground and homes on Headquarters Road in Courtenay. - The B.C. River Forecast Centre downgraded or ended flood warnings for several rivers and the city closed multiple parks and trails due to flooding. - Search manager Paul Berry noted the team assisted animals in this response and described some cases as uncommon for their unit. Summary: Flooding led to evacuations, a local emergency declaration and closures of parks and trails in Courtenay. Undetermined at this time.