Key Dates
Windstorm Hits White Rock
On Thursday, December 20, 2018, a devastating windstorm swept through the City of White Rock that resulted in extensive damage to the Pier, waterfront and boats along the marina. BC Hydro reported it to be the most damaging in the Crown utility’s history.
City staff were on site immediately on December 20, 2018 and accomplished:
- Barricading areas in the interest of public safety.
- Opened an emergency reception centre for residents displaced due to the impact the storm had on their homes, which resulted in them being evacuated.
- Removed debris from the waterfront, including fuel tanks, life jackets and broken boat components.
- Contacted BNSF Railway and developed plans for mutual assistance.
- Worked with the Environmental consultant to develop repair plans and directed the Marine Salvage operator throughout the Christmas period.
City staff continue to oversee the coordination of all repairs and approvals and are working diligently to reopen the waterfront.
News Conference Held
The City of White Rock held a press conference with Mayor Darryl Walker and White Rock fire Chief Phil Lemire to update media on the situation in the City following the severe wind storm on December 20, 2018.
News outlets Global BC, News 1130, CKNW, City TV, Vancouver Sun, Peace Arch News and more were present.2018 Storm Project Page - Media Coverage
Pier and Waterfront Storm Repair Work
The storm of December 20, 2018 severely damaged the White Rock Pier, West Beach, and in particular, East Beach. For example, logs, sunken boats and marine debris littered the shoreline near the white rock and Pier. Damage was also done to the tree lights along the entire waterfront. More information can be found in the Corporate report "Pier and East Beach Storm Repair Schedule and Repair Strategies" on page 29 of the Council Agenda.
Mayor Walker Meets with Federal and Provincial Government Representatives
On January 17, 2019, Mayor Walker met with South Surrey-White Rock MP Gordon Hogg and B.C. Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Selina Robinson, to discuss potential funding opportunities in regards to the Pier reconstruction and shoreline protection needs of the City. Photos of the tour are available here.
Council Endorses Corporate report titled, "Pier and East Beach Storm Repair Schedule and Repair Strategies"
At the January 28, 2019 Regular Council meeting, Council endorsed the repair schedule and strategies presented in the Corporate report titled "Pier and East Beach Storm Repair Schedule and Repair Strategies" which can be found on page 29 of the Council Agenda.
Scheduled Dates:
- Early February - Tree Lights West of Museum re-installed
- February 9 - Promenade West of the White Rock to re-open
- April 30 - East Beach to re-open