B.C.'s Comox Valley issues sewer use warning due to 'ongoing emergency'

A lone killer whale breaks the water in a Comox, B.C., harbour on Tuesday July 31, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jen Osborne

COMOX — Residents in B.C.’s Comox Valley are being asked not to flush toilets, avoid showering or bathing, and not use dishwashers or washing machines in an “ongoing emergency” with the area’s sewage system.

The Comox Valley Regional District says in a statement that the warning is in effect for Courtenay, Comox and the K’omoks First Nation.

Engineering services general manager Kris La Rose says in the statement that all devices that drain water into the sewer system — including toilets — should not be used until further notice.

The ban also applies to harvesting any shellfish or other marine resources from the area affected by the emergency.

The regional district is also warning people to avoid swimming or boating in the ocean near the shoreline, as well as in the areas of Goose Spit and Comox Marina.

Children and pets should also be kept away from beaches and estuary access points at this time.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 26, 2026.