KISPIOX VALLEY — The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine (RDKS) has declared a State of Local Emergency in Electoral Area ‘B’ as a massive ice jam on the Kispiox River sent freezing floodwaters spilling into rural properties Thursday night.
The emergency order, which took effect at 9:00 p.m. on January 15, 2026, follows a rapid buildup of river ice that has obstructed natural flow, causing water levels to rise unpredictably. Drone footage from the area shows at least one residential home and several outbuildings completely surrounded by icy water.
Evacuation Orders in Effect
Under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act, the RDKS has mandated the immediate departure of residents from the following high-risk properties:
| Property Address / Location | Legal Status | Action Required |
| 2240 Poplar Park Road | Evacuation Order | Leave Immediately |
| 4917 Kispiox Valley Road | Evacuation Order | Leave Immediately |
| 4637 Kispiox Valley Road | Evacuation Order | Leave Immediately |
| Cassiar Land District Lot 2281 | Evacuation Order | Leave Immediately |
Residents are instructed to shut off gas and water, take essential items (medication, ID, and pets), and register with Emergency Support Services (ESS).
Hazard Notice for Riverbank Residents
In addition to the specific orders, a broader Hazard Notice has been issued for all lands adjacent to the Kispiox River.Officials warn that ice jams are notoriously unstable; if the jam “releases” suddenly, it could trigger a secondary surge of water and debris downstream.
“When it lets go, I’m not sure what’s going to happen,” said Charlie Muldon, a coordinator with the Gitksan Watershed Authorities, who is currently assessing the jam. “Hopefully it’s not going to let go all at once, which would cause significant erosion and fisheries issues.”
Unpredictable Winter Conditions
Local residents, including Shannon McPhail, noted that while ice jams have occurred in the past, the scale and timing of this event are unusual. The Kispiox Valley has seen fluctuating temperatures in early January, which often contributes to the “break and jam” cycle of river ice.
The RDKS is advising all residents in the valley to:
- Stay away from riverbanks and weakened ice.
- Relocate livestock, heavy equipment, and vehicles to higher ground.
- Monitor official updates via EmergencyInfoBC and the RDKS website.
The State of Local Emergency will remain in place for seven days unless cancelled or extended.
