State of local emergency lifted in Campbell River following Jan. 17 landslide

State of local emergency lifted in Campbell River following Jan. 17 landslide
Photo: Dean Stoltz/CHEK News
Hillside Place was one of two buildings evacuated due to a landslide.

The City of Campbell River says a state of local emergency (SOLE) has been lifted after January’s landslide forced residents of two condo buildings from their homes.

On Friday, city officials rescinded the SOLE after a geotechnical investigation by engineering firm WSP Canada found natural groundwater triggered the landslide.

The incident happened around 7 p.m. on Jan. 17 at 738 and 758 South Island Hwy. S., otherwise known as Beechwood Manor and Hillside Place, which are located on the west side of the highway.

Residents told CHEK News small slides had been happening all day before someone called 911 to alert emergency crews. “Into the early evening, the debris was getting worse and worse,” said Dallas Carrie, who lives at Hillside Place.

Both buildings were evacuated as a precautionary measure, and for several days, residents were advised to stay away. They were later able to return on Jan. 21 after building inspections were completed, debris was removed and an evacuation order was lifted.

No injuries were reported during the landslide.

SEE JAN. 17 STORY: Landslide in Campbell River forces evacuation of two condo buildings, no injuries reported

“The potential for further, smaller movements of the slope were identified and short-term actions were recommended and implemented by the city to restrict slope access and support public safety,” states the city in a release.

“The investigation also provided follow-up recommendations that the city plans to consider moving forward. “It is noted that the slope is private property and that the City’s involvement in medium and long-term recommendations has not been defined,” officials added.

Following the landslide, the city says 30 volunteers from the support program and the Salvation Army contributed more than 200 hours of volunteer time.

“The city appreciates the incredible response and support of the emergency services, the Strathcona Regional District Emergency Support Service program, and all the volunteers and businesses who contributed their time and services during the response and recovery efforts,” said Kermit Dahl, Campbell River’s mayor.

WSP Canada’s complete report is online here.

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