Localized Flooding Prompts Responses News Release #3

Here is the latest update from the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre.

Local government crews and emergency responders continue to deal with instances of localized flooding in Kelowna, West Kelowna, the Ellison area and Fintry areas off of Westside Road.

The precautionary Evacuation Order remains in place for Fintry Provincial Park.  The caretaker and approximately five campers are out of the park and are being helped by volunteers with Emergency Support Services.

Sandbags are available at local firehalls for residents concerned about protecting their property from flooding.  Property owners are responsible for taking steps and having the necessary equipment to protect their properties from flooding.

The City of Kelowna is delivering sand to the corner of Richter Street and Rowcliffe Avenue and to the Cook Street boat launch for residents who need to fill sand bags to protect their property from flooding.

Sand and bags are also available for West Kelowna residents at Falcon Park on Green Bay Road, Casa Loma Beach Park on Casa Loma Road and Pebble Beach Park at the end of Whitworth Road.  If more sand and bags are required please call the City’s Parks Department at 778-797-8849.

North Westside residents may fill sandbags at the main firehall in Killiney Beach.

A number of roads in the Central Okanagan have been affected by flooding.  In the City of Kelowna Bulman Road is closed from Shadow Ridge golf course to Heron Road.   In the City of West Kelowna, Gellatly Road is closed from the Canyon Ridge subdivision to the intersection with Boucherie Road due to flooding of Powers and Smith Creeks.  And Westside Road has single lane alternating traffic near the North Westside Firehall at Short’s Creek as debris is being cleared from the creek.  

Approximately 6,000 BC Hydro customers in West Kelowna may experience temporary power outages as crews repair and replace damaged infrastructure.    For the latest information please visit the BC Hydro website http://www.bchydro.com/safety-outages/power-outages.html

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.

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 twitter.com/CO_Emerg and facebook.com/CORDemergency.

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