In Pemberton, B.C., experts warn of an imminent threat from a glacial lake that could overflow, endangering nearby areas. Approximately two dozen properties in the Poole Creek and Gates Lake region of D’Arcy and Birken, situated about 30 kilometers northeast of Pemberton, have been placed on evacuation alert since last Sunday.
Data from monitoring systems at a lake near Place Glacier indicates that the lake’s water level has reached 24 meters, the same level observed during a previous outburst in 2025. If the water level reaches 30 meters, an evacuation order will be issued by the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, as stated by board chair Jen Ford.
The region experienced glacial lake outbursts in both 2024 and 2025, with no reported property damages from the flooding incidents. Ford emphasized the importance of readiness and having evacuation plans in place, considering the recurring nature of these events in recent years.
Describing the situation as a warning sign, Ford highlighted the need for preparedness not just locally but across Canada. Authorities anticipate continued outbursts until the glacier has completely receded, with ongoing monitoring of lake depth using pressure sensor instruments and cameras to track water levels.
Research scientist Jeff Crompton from the Geological Survey of Canada explained that the drainage process during an outburst is gradual, taking hours as water flows beneath the glacier and through a series of lakes before reaching Place Creek, close to the properties at risk. The timing of future outbursts remains uncertain, according to Brian Menounos, an earth sciences professor at the University of Northern British Columbia.
While the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness has provided funding for response actions and future mitigation efforts, they have decided against using explosives to drain the lake due to uncertainties about its effectiveness and potential geotechnical risks in the high alpine terrain.
Place Glacier’s extensive study makes it a valuable model for understanding similar events at other glacier sites. Menounos stressed the need for improved monitoring and research on other glaciers, highlighting the likelihood of similar outburst events occurring elsewhere in British Columbia.