Higher creek flow, higher lake level - News Release #82
Central Okanagan, B.C. – An Evacuation Order was rescinded this morning for two properties on Marchbank Road on the western side of Okanagan Lake.
Crews in the Central Okanagan continue to monitor lake levels, creek flows and flood mitigation measures as a weather system moves in later today.
Environment Canada reported Okanagan Lake reached 343.10 at 7 a.m. on May 30 – a two-centimetre rise since May 29 at 7 a.m. when the lake level was reported as 343.08 m.
Residents and visitors to the Central Okanagan are reminded to leave flood protection measures in place and bolster them in anticipation of forecasted winds gusting up to 25 kilometres an hour. High lake levels and variable weather conditions are expected to persist for the foreseeable future.
People are also asked to stay off the bladder dams, gabion cages and sandbags deployed along beaches and creeks.
Emergency officials are asking residents to find wake-free options to enjoy Okanagan Lake in the weeks ahead. Respectful operation of watercraft is urged so that boat wakes do not cause further erosion or flooding of lakeshore properties. Wake is just one of the concerns, as boaters need to be cautious about wood debris floating under the surface of the lake and submerged infrastructure.
The flow of Mission Creek is expected to increase over the next few days with the recent hot weather and rain in the forecast. The creek was flowing at 65 cubic-metres-a-second last night and is expected to stay at that rate for the next day or two.
Crews have bolstered protection measures between Lakeshore Bridge and the mouth of Okanagan Lake. Residents living along Mission Creek, especially those closer to the lake, are urged to reinforce the flood protection around their properties, due to increasing lake levels and potential for back water effect.
All 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 locations.
The most up to date lake levels can be found on the Government of Canada’s website. The increase of lake levels being reported out by various agencies will depend on what time period is being used to report out on.
Residents are reminded that this is a weather driven event and things will continue to evolve with the weather. A sudden change in weather could increase the risk of flooding.
For municipal information such as boat launch, park and beach closures, and water quality advisories, visit their websites:
For more information, visit www.cordemergency.ca, sign up for e-updates or call the information line at 250-469-8490.
