Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Morning Edition

BREAKING: Avian Influenza Confirmed at Chilliwack Poultry Farm — First B.C. Commercial Flock Infection This Season

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed Friday that avian influenza has been detected in a commercial poultry flock in Chilliwack. It is the first reported infection involving a commercial flock in British Columbia this season and the province's first announced domestic-bird detection since February.

The discovery raises renewed concerns for the Fraser Valley's poultry industry, which has experienced substantial losses during previous outbreaks. The CFIA says H5 avian influenza is not considered a food-safety concern, although infected farms face quarantine and disease-control measures.

Poultry production is an important component of the Upper Fraser Valley agricultural economy. An outbreak can affect farm operations, transportation, processing, suppliers, and neighbouring producers.

The number of birds affected, the extent of movement restrictions and any additional infections require further confirmation.

CHILLIWACK & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

Chilliwack Hospital Fundraising Campaign Surpasses $30,000

The Tiny Strong Together campaign has raised more than $30,000 toward purchasing two fetal telemetry monitors for the maternity ward at Chilliwack General Hospital.

The initiative was launched by Hofstede's Country Barn and the Fraser Valley Health Centre. The equipment will allow expectant mothers greater mobility while medical staff continuously monitor their babies.

The campaign aims to raise $130,000 by April 30, 2027.

High Streamflow Advisory Issued for Lower Fraser River Basin

The BC River Forecast Centre has expanded high streamflow advisories to include the lower Fraser River basin as a series of atmospheric river systems moves through coastal British Columbia.

Waterways are rising in affected regions, and additional rainfall is expected through the weekend and into next week. A high streamflow advisory indicates rising river levels but does not, by itself, mean flooding is occurring.

Communities along the Fraser River, including Chilliwack, Rosedale, Agassiz and Hope, depend on accurate river monitoring for flood preparedness, agricultural operations and transportation planning.

Strong Winds Could Affect Coquihalla Highway Travel

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a highway weather alert for the Coquihalla and Okanagan Connector corridors.

Forecast winds could reach 60–80 km/h, with gusts potentially approaching 90 km/h as another storm system moves through the region. Rain and wind may reduce visibility, while high-sided vehicles could be affected by crosswinds.

Chilliwack Budget Consultation Enters Final Weekend

Residents have until Sunday, November 8, to participate in Chilliwack's public consultation on its 2027 municipal budget.

The process allows residents to identify spending and service priorities as the newly elected council begins its four-year term.

CHILLIWACK — REMEMBRANCE DAY PREPARATIONS

Three Chilliwack Ceremonies Planned for Remembrance Day

Chilliwack residents will have three opportunities to participate in Remembrance Day ceremonies on Wednesday, November 11.

A downtown service begins at Evergreen Hall at 10 a.m., followed by a procession to Veterans Memorial Park. A second procession begins at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 295 on Vedder Road at 10:30 a.m. and proceeds to All Sappers Memorial Park.

The Stó:lō Nation will also hold its Remembrance Day ceremony at the Coqualeetza Longhouse.

Stó:lō Veterans to Be Honoured at Coqualeetza Longhouse

The Stó:lō Veterans Remembrance Day ceremony will take place November 11 at the Coqualeetza Longhouse, 7201 Vedder Road.

Doors open at 9 a.m., with the ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. A procession to the memorial site follows at approximately 10:50 a.m., with lunch afterward.

AGASSIZ & ROSEDALE

Agassiz-Rosedale Bridge Rehabilitation Continues

The $33-million rehabilitation of the Agassiz-Rosedale Bridge remains an important transportation project for the eastern Fraser Valley.

Work includes structural steel and concrete repairs, drainage improvements and replacement of expansion joints. The province expects the project to extend the bridge's operational life by approximately 50 years.

Approximately 15,000 vehicles use the crossing daily, making it an important connection for commuters, agriculture, tourism and commercial transportation.

HOPE & FRASER CANYON

Hope Prepares to Honour Veterans on November 11

Hope's Remembrance Day activities will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Royal Canadian Legion on Fort Street.

A parade will proceed to the cenotaph in Memorial Park, where the ceremony begins at approximately 10:50 a.m. The program includes wreath-laying and a moment of silence, followed by refreshments at the Legion.

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS

Harrison Residents Invited to Help Shape 2027 Budget

The Village of Harrison Hot Springs continues to invite public feedback on its 2027 municipal budget.

Residents have until November 24 to submit their priorities as the newly inaugurated council prepares its financial plan.

Sources: Canadian Food Inspection Agency; Fraser Valley Today; BC River Forecast Centre; DriveBC; City of Chilliwack; Fraser Valley Current; Government of British Columbia; Village of Harrison Hot Springs.