Image Credit: File photo
April 19, 2016 - 2:22 PM
EMPTY SANDBAGS AVAILABLE AT MOST LOCAL FIRE HALLS
CENTRAL OKANAGAN - Creeks and streams swollen by early spring run-off have prompted a cautionary warning from the Central Okanagan Regional District.
While low- and mid-elevation snowpacks have mostly melted, the higher than average snowpack this year in the Okanagan is just beginning to run off, driven by above-seasonal day and nighttime temperatures.
While the regional district doesn't name any specific areas of concern, it warns the risk of rain combined with high water is raising the threat of localized flooding.
Those who have experienced flooding before and those living near creeks, streams, lakes and in low-lying areas are most at-risk and should consider protecting their property and having the necessary tools and equipment in place.
Stockpiles of sandbags are available at most fire halls in the area although property owners must provide their own sand.
Instructions on how to properly build a sandbag dike and other flood preparedness information is available at the regional district office, 1450 KLO Rd. in Kelowna and at the main fire hall on Enterprise Way, as well as online at www.cordemergency.ca.
The regional district and the Ministry of Environment continue to monitor water levels and weather conditions contributing to the spring freshet and if needed, warnings will be issued by the B.C. River Forecast Centre.
High water also means residents should be aware and cautious around the area’s creeks and streams, which may rise in level quickly and unexpectedly.
River banks may be unstable from erosion so people are advised to keep themselves and their pets a safe distance away.
In the event of an emergency and activation of the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre, the latest information will be available online at the centre's public Information website www.cordemergency.ca and via Facebook and Twitter.
To contact a reporter for this story, email John McDonald or call 250-808-0143 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.
We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.
News from © iNFOnews, 2016