UPDATE 2000 hours: The river has receded enough to allow the reopening of Chemainus Road. Pooling water will still be on the road and shoulders so drive with caution.
UPDATE 1445 hours: The evacuation order for the 11 properties has been rescinded and residents can return home. Chemainus Road remains closed due to high water.
1041 hours: Emergency Management Cowichan has issued an Evacuation Order for 10 properties in the area of Chemainus Rd, Swallowfield Rd and Crofton Rd due to risk of imminent flooding from the Chemainus River.
Chemainus Road is closed in both directions at the bridge. A detour is available via Highway 1.
Persons within the evacuation order area must leave the designated area immediately. Failure to do so could result in injury and loss of life.
Properties Included:
- 8659 Swallowfield Rd
- 8635 Swallowfield Rd
- 8421 Chemainus Rd
- 8506 Chemainus Rd
- 8377 Chemainus Rd
- 8976 Crofton Rd
- 8360 Chemainus Rd
- 8348 Chemainus Rd
- 8335 Chemainus Rd
- 9023/9019 Crofton Rd
If you are not in the area, avoid the area.
- Leave the area immediately. Exit the area southbound on Crofton Rd towards Crofton, or southbound Chemainus Rd towards Trans-Canada Hwy.
- Take your 72-hour kit and any critical items (medicine, purse, wallet and keys) only.
- Once you have safely evacuated, check in at the reception centre, located at the Cowichan Community Centre in Duncan - 2687 James St., North Cowichan, B.C.
- Listen to local news stations for information and watch for further updates.
- Follow the directions of local authorities.
- Do not call 911 for information or updates.
- Sign up for alerts through Alertable
If your property Is not Included In the evacuation order and you are experiencing flooding to your property call Emergency Management Cowichan at 250-715-7320.
The next update will be provided at 3pm on January 12, 2026
