Localized Flooding Prompts Responses News Release 2

As a result of erosion caused by high water levels in nearby Smith Creek, BC Hydro is conducting an emergency replacement of a hydro pole located on Gellatly Road in West Kelowna. The work will require short temporary power outages for approximately 6,000 customers in the area, and a six-hour outage for residents along the Gellatly waterfront, including at The Pointe subdivision, and along Whitworth Road.

Gellatly Road is closed from the Canyon Ridge subdivision to the intersection with Boucherie Road due to flooding of Powers and Smith Creeks.

An Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to support emergency personnel and local government staff as they respond to various reports of flooding and high water levels in creeks and streams throughout the Central Okanagan.

The heavy rain from overnight thunderstorms combined with snowmelt from warmer tempertures yesterday has seen the flow and level of all water courses rise.  It’s expected this situation will continue at least through today.

As a precaution, an Evacuation Order has been issued for Fintry Provincial Park and a nearby caretaker residence. All people have been cleared from the evacuated area.

Areas that are being monitored or actioned include locations in the cities of Kelowna and West Kelowna, Ellison and around Short’s Creek and the Fintry Delta area off Westside Road. 

Motorists should be prepared for alternating single lane traffic on Westside Road at the North Westside Fire Hall just south of Short’s Creek as crews clear debris from the creek.  Check the Drive BC website for the latest conditions.

This morning the BC River Forecast Centre issued a Flood Watch for Mission Creek.  A Flood Watch means that river levels are rising and will approach or may exceed bankful.  Flooding of areas adjacent to affected rivers may occur.

The Emergency program reminds property owners that they are responsible for having tools and equipment necessary to protect their properties from possible flooding.  Sandbags are available at local firehalls in the Central Okanagan for residents concerned about potential flooding.  At this time they are responsible for providing their own sand.

As well, creeks and streams are continuing to rise and see increased flows, residents are advised to use extra care and attention around local creeks.  Hikers and walkers should be aware that fast moving water may cause some creek bank erosion and creek bank edges may not be stable. Anyone wishing to canoe or raft should check their route from land before setting out to ensure debris is not caught near culverts or under bridges.

Boaters are encouraged to keep their boat speed down and watch for any floating debris that may be deposited in area lakes from tributaries.

Crews will continue to monitor trouble spots clearing culverts, beaver dams and other blockages that could lead to flooding.   Anyone noticing a potential problem or a flooding concern is asked to call the Kelowna Fire Department at 250-469-8801.

For up to date information on the situation including a map and to sign up for e-updates, visit www.cordemergency.ca.

Information will also be provided via the www.twitter.com/CO_Emergency and www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency.

For more information contact the Information Office at 250-469-8490 or 1-877-569-8490 (toll-free).