Localized Flooding Prompts Responses News Release #28

Localized Flooding May 2017

Kelowna, B.C –  Evacuees can register at the Emergency Support Services Reception Centre until 5 p.m. today.

All Evacuation Orders and Alerts remain in place.  Use the map at cordemergency.ca to search for the status of specific addresses.

Residents on Evacuation Order should report and register at the Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre located in the Salvation Army Church, 1480 Sutherland Avenue (corner of Burtch Road and Sutherland Avenue).

The ESS will be open today until 5 p.m., open on Wednesday, May 10 between 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. and open Thursday, May 11 between 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.

The ESS offers food and accommodation vouchers for evacuees who are unable to access their homes. Due to a shortage of hotel space on Friday and Saturday nights, evacuees are encouraged to try and find temporary accommodation with family and friends.

Residents and property owners that are no longer under Evacuation Order should be aware that they may not have full services. Those with property managers should see them to obtain information on the safety and status of their property. Many conditions must be considered including whether there has been flood/water damage and the status of utilities and electrical/gas service.

Emergency Management BC has new information available for residents to consider when returning to their home after flooding.  Some areas of importance include the safety of drinking water, safety regarding electrical and gas utilities, food safety and caution surrounding removal of furniture and building materials https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2017TRAN0174-001191

The short-term forecast is calling for significant rain starting late Thursday.  Citizens should keep in place all protective measures.  Citizens who live in low lying areas near creeks and lakes that may be susceptible to flooding should also take preventative measures to protect their properties.

Anyone noticing a potential problem or a flooding concern is asked to call the Kelowna Fire Department at 250-469-8801.

Information will also be provided via the https://twitter.com/CO_Emerg and https://www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency/ or by phone at 250-469-8490 or 1-877-569-8490 (toll-free).