Flood measures installations continue - News Release #61

Kelowna, B.C. – There are isolated areas within the Central Okanagan experiencing impacts from rising lake levels.
 
Okanagan Lake levels rose two centimetres to 342.75 metres since yesterday. These conditions are expected to last well into June due to record water levels in area lakes and the amount of snow in higher elevations expecting to melt with the warmer temperatures in the forecast.

Public works crews continue today installing bladder dams in Kelowna at Kinsmen Park, Sutherland Park and Tug Boat Park as well as sandbag walls at Manhattan Drive Beach Access and Watt Road. The public is asked to stay back from protective flood measures. This includes climbing or jumping on bladder dams and sandbag walls.

The locations for these works are based on a survey of waterfront properties on Okanagan Lake that are most prone to flooding from rising lake levels. Some of the prime installation considerations include protecting public infrastructure and foreshore areas that protect many upland properties. Specific areas were also determined by their risk of flooding and how easily and efficiently these barriers can be put in place. Crews will continue to install barriers in the coming days on a priority basis.

Residents in low-lying and waterfront areas that may be affected by flooding from rising lake levels are encouraged to use sandbags or other measures to protect structures on their property. For instructions on flood preparations such as protecting property, securing docks and finding sandbag locations visit cordemergency.ca.

Heading into the long weekend, flood preparations and rising water levels may impact some access to beaches and waterfront parks in various local governments across the region. Visit local government websites to check the current status of parks and beaches. For tourism information and exploring of the many parks in the region refer to local government websites or Tourism Kelowna.

Boaters on lakes in the Central Okanagan are reminded to keep their speeds and wakes down to prevent shoreline erosion from preventable wave action. They should also watch for floating debris. In preparation of potential flooding, docks or boats must be properly secured. Boat owners with boats on lifts may choose to remove their boat from the lift and trailer it for safe storage. 

Debris washed up on beaches should be left there for the time being. Please do not remove logs and other wood material as it helps limit erosion caused by wave action. When the flood risk has passed, officials will provide notification of how the beach debris will be removed.

See the most up to date information or to register to for e-updates visit cordemergency.ca.