(Photo Credit: City of Dawson Creek)

By Nathaniel Leigh

City of Dawson Creek

City of Dawson Creek declares State of Local Emergency due to ongoing water crisis

Oct 15, 2025 | 11:16 AM

The City of Dawson Creek has declared a state of local emergency as it continues to experience a prolonged drought.

The Kiskatinaw River, the city’s only water source, is currently experiencing an unprecedented three-year drought and the city has roughly 150 days of water stored up for the winter.

Officials say the declaration allows the city to access additional resources and support from the BC government as it works to secure a temporary weather source and protect essential services.

“Despite years of conservation, careful management, and investment in water infrastructure, the ongoing drought has reached a point where our water supply can no longer meet community needs without emergency action,” said Mayor Darcy Dober. “This declaration ensures we can act quickly to protect residents, businesses, and essential services while we continue our long-term work toward a new, sustainable water supply.”

At this time the City of Dawson Creek says it is maintaining it’s Stage 3 Water Conservation Measures and residents are encouraged to conserve water wherever possible.

Residents can stay up to date on the state of local emergency on the city website.