Don't Let Guards Down - We're Not Done Yet News Release #101
Okanagan Lake levels may be in a period of fluctuation but we’re still at historic levels. Flood concerns remain very real and residents should keep protection measures in place.
This morning Environment and Climate Change Canada pegged Okanagan Lake at 343.244 metres above sea level, down seven-tenths of a centimetre compared to 343.250 metres yesterday morning. Today, Kalamalka Lake is reported at 392.427 metres, down 1.3 centimetres from yesterday’s level of 392.440 metres.
These slight decreases are good to see, but one day does not make a trend. We’re still very much at the mercy of the weather. With lakes still at extraordinarily high levels, we’ve seen what damage wind-driven waves can do. That’s why private property owners should continue to follow the lead of local government works crews by reviewing their flood protection and defences daily; repairing, replacing and fortifying them as needed. There are also ongoing issues with the high water table which can’t be forgotten. Property owners need to keep their flood defences in place.
This is still a very active emergency response and even though area lakes may not have crested, some staff at the Emergency Operations Centre are looking to the future and are working and planning for demobilization and recovery. Officials will continue to assess lake levels and determine the best methods for incrementally over time, removing protection measures to match the appropriate corresponding decrease in lake levels.
People are reminded to stay off flood protection equipment and stay away from standing water. Jumping or walking on gabions or water dams is a public safety concern and could damage or undermine the device causing ruptures and significant water flows.
Boating and watercraft activities continue to be discouraged due to potential hazards with floating and submerged debris and newly installed log booms along the Manhattan Point shoreline. Residents and visitors are encouraged to check out the wide variety of alternative activities available throughout the Central Okanagan. For information on parks and recreational activities offered visit local government websites and recreation program guides or contact Tourism Kelowna.
All other evacuation alerts and orders remain in effect. Check out the map at www.cordemergency.ca/map and search by address to determine if an area is under alert or order, or to find the closest sand and sandbag loations.
For more information, visit www.cordemergency.ca, sign up for e-updates or call the information line at 250-469-8490.
For municipal information such as boat launch, park and beach closures, and water quality advisories, visit their websites:
Keep informed by signing up for e-updates at www.cordemergency.ca, or call the information line at 250-469-8490.
