Home » News » Here

Evacuation Order Issued for Spruce Grove Campground & RV Resort in Fairmont

Rapidly rising overland flood waters prompted a tactical evacuation of the Spruce Grove Campground & RV Resort in Fairmont overnight and a formal Evacuation Order for the property is now in place. 

“RDEK emergency officials, RCMP and Fairmont Hot Springs Resort staff evacuated the site at approximately 2:00am this morning as rising water was threatening to cut off access and egress from the property,” says Information Officer Loree Duczek. The campground has approximately 50 sites and the Resort accommodated everyone affected either in the Resort hotel or another campground. 

At this time access to the campground is prohibited as the potential for rapidly changing water levels remains.  “We recognize people are wanting to get back in to the site; however, at this time, it is not safe to do so, which is why the Evacuation Order is in effect. The safety of our residents and emergency responders is our top priorty,” adds Duczek. 

Water levels have dropped slightly over the past few hours and cooler temperatures are forecast for the next few days; however, it is not yet known when water levels will recede following the warm temperatures and increased-high elevation snow melt over the past week.

This is the only Evacuation Order in effect at this time.  There are also two Evacuation Alerts in effect in the East Kootenay, both in nearby areas: on Fairmont Creek and for the Hoodoo Mountain Resort. 

“We would like to thank Fairmont Hot Spring Resort for their assistance and efforts in relocating all those affected by the evacuation of the Spruce Grove Campground overnight,” adds Duczek.

A High Streamflow Advisory remains in effect for the East Kootenay and with spring run-off underway, residents are urged to stay away from all waterways as water levels can change rapidly and with little warning.  Creek banks can also become undercut and unstable.

Copies of the Evacuation Order, Alerts, and corresponding maps can be found on the Evacuations & Alerts page on this website.


-30-