Flood watch: Still in effect - News Release #49

Flood watch: Still in effect

Kelowna, B.C – Cooler weather and minimal rain overnight kept flood conditions in a holding pattern, allowing a handful of evacuation orders and alerts to be rescinded.

However, unsettled weather for the foreseeable future means all residents near water need to remain alert to sudden changes and be prepared. This is a weather driven event and any changes in rainfall, warm temperatures or wind could cause conditions to change quickly.

All residents, including those no longer on order or alert, are reminded to keep sandbags in place until the flood watch event has fully ended. High water levels are expected to last for an extended period of time.

Over the past few days, Okanagan Lake has risen on average 5 cm per day and continues to rise. Okanagan Lake is currently 10 cm above full pool. Residents with dwellings along waterways, lakes and beach edges are instructed to not remove the debris along their property, as it can act as a barricade against rising waters and minimize erosion.  

Boaters are reminded that lake levels are high with a significant amount of floating debris. Boaters should keep their distance from shorelines, as additional waves could cause disturbance to banks and beaches.

The Evacuation Alert for 439 residents in the Scotty Creek subdivision in the Ellison area of the Regional District has been rescinded, along with properties at 2002 Ethel Street, 1902 Lindahl Street, 1118 Brookside Avenue, 3897 Casorso Road and 1237 Pacific Avenue.

Earlier Friday, Evacuation Orders were also rescinded for 1824 and 1826 Marshall Street and 1966 Richter Street.

All residents are asked to be cautious as the Central Okanagan is not out of the woods yet and the message to “stay prepared” remains as important as ever. Get tips at www.getprepared.ca.

To view the most up to date information, go to www.cordemergency.ca and view maps.