A slide on Wednesday evening around 5 p.m. has forced the shut down of the Norrish Creek water supply to both Abbotsford and Mission.
Debris from the slide crossed the Forest Service Road to Norrish Creek, completely blocking it. The slide covers approximately 300 metres.
The debris from the slide also caused a breach in the Norrish water supply pipe that runs alongside the road and city crews decided to shut down the water system.
City manager George Murray said no impact is anticipated to water service for residents of Abbotsford and Mission, because the supply from Cannell Lake and the wells systems can address demand at this time of year.
Murray said a contracted security guard who was stationed at the Norrish Creek Treatment Plant attempted to hike across the debris field at some point overnight and became stranded. Mission Search and Rescue were dispatched to the scene this morning and the guard has since been transported to hospital.
Murray said that his full condition is unknown, but preliminary reports are that he was uninjured.
The city has brought in a geotechnical engineer to assess the situation.
A full review of the site is being undertaken although preliminary estimations are that it will be at least four weeks before the supply will be restored to full operation.
The Forest Service Road remains closed to all foot and vehicle traffic until further notice.
