Now that spring has officially arrived, some Central Okanagan property owners should consider protecting their property and reducing the risk of damage from potential flooding.

Those living near creeks, streams and low-lying flood-prone areas and with lakefront properties are responsible for having a plan as well as the tools and equipment necessary to protect their properties from possible flood damage.

While there are no areas of concern at the present time, a sudden prolonged warm spell combined with heavy rains could increase the risk of above average creek levels and potential flooding. 

Local governments and the BC Ministry of Environment are monitoring water levels and weather conditions connected to the annual spring runoff and if needed will issue further notices.

Stockpiles of sandbags are available at all local fire halls throughout the Central Okanagan.  At this time, property owners are responsible for providing their own sand to fill the bags.  Information and pamphlets on flood preparedness including a recommended method for sandbag diking are available from the Regional District of Central Okanagan office (1450 KLO Road) and the main City of Kelowna fire hall on Enterprise Way as well as on the Be Prepared page of the Regional District Emergency Program website www.cordemergency.ca and on the Emergency Management BC website:  http://embc.gov.bc.ca/em/floods/preparedness.html

With anticipated seasonally warmer temperatures and the melting of the snowpack, the level of Mission and other area creeks will be rising and water will flow faster.  At this time of year, please use caution around all local water bodies.  People are reminded that water levels may rise unexpectedly and they and their pets should stay safely back from creek banks, which may be slippery or subject to erosion from the spring runoff.

In the event of an emergency and activation of the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre (EOC), the latest information will be available online at the EOC Public Information website:  www.cordemergency.ca.   Central Okanagan residents are encouraged to subscribe on the website to receive email notifications from the Emergency Program.

News from © iNFOnews, 2014