KITIMAT — The District of Kitimat has escalated its water advisory to a formal Boil Water Notice as of 11:30 a.m. on February 4, 2026. The notice was confirmed by the District in information shared directly with Skeena News, following consultation with Northern Health.
The notice follows several days of heavy regional rainfall and rising water levels in the Kitimat River, which have caused elevated turbidity (cloudiness). This notice upgrades a previous Water Quality Advisory from February 2 and applies to all residential and commercial users in the municipal water system.
Safety Protocols for Residents
Under a Boil Water Notice, there is a significant public health threat as organisms in the water may have the potential to cause illness. To ensure safety, all users should bring their tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before consumption.
Boiled water must be used for:
- Drinking and ice making
- Brushing teeth
- Washing fruits and vegetables eaten raw
- Preparing infant formula
Owners of public premises are legally required to notify all patrons of this notice immediately.
Environmental Context: Atmospheric River and Flood Watch
The water quality issues are a direct result of an “atmospheric river” weather system currently impacting the North Coast. Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for the Kitimat and Terrace areas, with 40 to 70 mm of rain expected through the evening of February 4.
The region is also under a provincial flood watch. Local safety concerns have already led to the temporary closure of Dike Road near Riverlodge as of 11:00 a.m. today due to erosion concerns along the Kitimat River banks. Officials are urging the public to stay away from fast-moving riverbanks.
Inquiries and Updates
The Boil Water Notice will remain in effect until a Drinking Water Officer rescinds it. For more information, residents can contact the District of Kitimat municipal office at 250-632-8900 or subscribe to the Voyent Alert system.
