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Heavy rain continues to hammer Langley and the Fraser Valley on Monday, with forecasters warning of flooding and travel disruptions as an atmospheric river system batters the region.
Today's roundup covers emergency shelter openings, highway closures, Indigenous history making headlines with the new bridge naming, political turmoil in One B.C., and strong performances from local sports teams as the Rivermen extend their winning streak to five games.
B.C. Government Issues High Impact Warning as More Flooding Expected
The B.C. government has issued a "high impact" warning as heavy rainfall is forecast to cause additional flooding in low-lying areas across parts of the province.
The atmospheric river system that has been battering the region shows no signs of letting up immediately, with more heavy rainfall expected throughout the day Monday.
Provincial officials are warning residents in affected areas to prepare for potential flooding and increased landslide activity as the additional rain further destabilizes slopes.
Emergency management teams are monitoring the situation closely and precautionary highway closures are being implemented to protect public safety.
The rain is expected to ease by early evening as the weather system finally moves off, though communities will be dealing with the aftermath for days to come.
Highway 1 Through Abbotsford Reopens With Delays Expected
Highway 1 has reopened in both directions through Abbotsford following weather-related closures.
Drivers are being warned to expect delays as only one lane is currently open eastbound.
The reopening comes as the Fraser Valley continues to deal with atmospheric river conditions bringing heavy rain to the region.
Motorists are advised to drive with caution and allow extra travel time when using this corridor.
Langley shelter opens emergency mats as heavy rain soaks region
Gateway of Hope has issued an extreme weather alert and is opening 20 emergency mats for adults as forecasters warn of 50mm of rain within 24 hours.
The shelter at 5787 Langley Bypass will provide intake between 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., offering meals, laundry, and showers for those seeking refuge from the storm.
The facility is wheelchair accessible and pet friendly, with staff urging anyone sleeping rough to come inside for safety.
Langley Groups Offer Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree Disposal Options
When the holiday season ends and it's time to say goodbye to that Christmas tree, Langley residents have some environmentally-friendly options that also support local causes.
Local fundraising groups are stepping up to help dispose of cut Christmas trees through chipping programs.
These initiatives not only provide a convenient way for residents to get rid of their trees but also turn them into useful mulch while raising funds for community organizations.
It's a win-win situation that keeps trees out of landfills and supports worthwhile local causes.
Details about drop-off locations and collection dates are available through participating organizations.
Ukulele Association Invites Adults to Strum Along at Holiday Jam Session
The Langley Ukulele Association is spreading holiday cheer with a new opportunity for adults to make music together this Christmas season.
The group has unveiled plans for an afternoon holiday jam session where ukulele enthusiasts of all skill levels can strum along to festive tunes.
It's a fresh chance for adults to participate in community music-making during the most wonderful time of the year. Whether you're a seasoned player or just picked up the instrument, the welcoming atmosphere promises to deliver some serious holiday spirit.
The event offers a delightful way to connect with fellow music lovers while celebrating the season.
New bridge name honors the Kwantlen man who saved Simon Fraser's life
The stal̓əw̓asəm bridge connecting Surrey and New Westminster takes its name from the site where First Contact occurred in 1808 and where Kwantlen leader Whattlekainum saved explorer Simon Fraser from certain death.
Whattlekainum used his wealth to pay off aggrieved community members and provided an armed escort after Fraser had kicked a local man and ignored warnings about traveling downriver into hostile Musqueam territory.
The name, gifted by Kwantlen First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band, translates roughly to "river view" and marks the birthplace of shared history between Indigenous peoples and European settlers in British Columbia.
One B.C. Party Board Moves to Remove Dallas Brodie as Leader
Internal turmoil has erupted within One B.C. as a party board has announced the removal of Dallas Brodie from his position as party leader.
Board member Tara Armstrong has publicly stated she has lost confidence in Brodie's leadership, marking a significant shake-up within the provincial political organization. The move comes amid what appears to be growing divisions within the party structure. Details about who might replace Brodie or what prompted this dramatic leadership change remain unclear, but the decision signals serious internal disagreements about the party's direction.
Canadian Blood Services Works to Reduce U.S. Reliance for Plasma-Based Drugs
Canadian Blood Services is launching a major initiative to reduce the country's dependence on the United States for life-changing plasma-derived medications.
Stéphane Cliche's story illustrates why this matters—for years, the healthy athlete suffered from recurring sinus and respiratory infections that doctors couldn't explain, until plasma-based immunoglobulin treatments changed his life.
Currently, Canada relies heavily on plasma imported from the U.S. to manufacture these critical drugs, which treat immune deficiencies and other serious conditions.
The new strategy aims to increase domestic plasma collection and processing capacity to ensure a more secure supply chain.
This push for plasma self-sufficiency comes as concerns grow about potential disruptions to cross-border medical supply chains and the ethical implications of purchasing plasma from paid American donors when Canada's system is volunteer-based.
Rainer Fehrenbacher
Statistics Canada Set to Release November Inflation Figures
Statistics Canada is scheduled to publish inflation data for November, with economists and policymakers watching closely for signs of where the economy is headed.
A Reuters poll conducted ahead of the release shows consensus among analysts about expected inflation levels, though the actual figures could still surprise markets.
The November numbers will provide crucial insight into whether price pressures are continuing to ease or if inflation remains stubbornly elevated despite the Bank of Canada's efforts to cool the economy. These figures will influence both consumer confidence and potential future interest rate decisions.
The data comes at a time when many Canadians are feeling squeezed by the cost of living, making these monthly inflation reports increasingly scrutinized by both the public and policymakers.
Langley Rivermen Extend Unbeaten Streak to Five Games With Latest Victory
The Langley Rivermen are riding high with their latest victory over the Prince George Spruce Kings, extending their undefeated streak to five games.
The Rivermen have found their groove at the perfect time, stringing together an impressive run that has them climbing the standings. Their balanced attack and solid defensive play have been key to the streak, with contributions coming from throughout the lineup.
The win over Prince George continues to build momentum as the team heads deeper into the season.
Fans at the George Preston Recreation Centre have been treated to exciting hockey as the Rivermen look to keep the good times rolling.
Canucks Begin Post-Hughes Era With Win as Buium and Demko Shine
The Vancouver Canucks entered a new chapter following the blockbuster Quinn Hughes trade, and they kicked it off with a 2-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils.
Thatcher Demko was solid between the pipes, while young defenseman Buium stepped up with a strong performance in what many are calling the beginning of the post-Hughes era.
The win was far from pretty but showed the team's resilience in navigating what has been an emotional and turbulent period.
The Canucks now face questions about how they'll restructure their blue line and whether they can remain competitive without their former captain and star defenseman.
Next up, Vancouver travels to face the New York Rangers on Tuesday, giving them little time to adjust to their new reality but also an immediate opportunity to prove they can still compete at a high level.
People who are actively employed now make up nearly one in five food bank visits across Canada, more than people reporting no income at all.
The Archway Food Bank in Abbotsford serves over 6,200 people each month (including 38% children) and needs to raise $1.3 million before year's end to keep providing nutritious food hampers to neighbours who've exhausted every other option.
Please donate to ensure no family in our community goes hungry this winter.
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