So Far, So Good - News Release #44
Prepare for the worst, hope for the best. That’s the basis of the ongoing Emergency Operation Centre response to the flooding in the Central Okanagan.
Overnight, showers moved through the area and so far, they haven’t contributed to any reports of additional flooding.
That said the potential still exists for rising water levels across the Central Okanagan, as ongoing showers and possible thundershowers combine with melting snow in the higher elevations to boost creek and stream flows and levels of all area lakes. Residents in low-lying areas and near creeks and lakes that may be susceptible to flooding should continue efforts to protect their property from potential flood damage. Do not remove any sandbags or other protective measures until advised that the flood threat is over.
Throughout the night, emergency and public works crews continued monitoring areas that have been affected by flooding and will continue keeping watch on streams and creeks.
Links to some new Lake Level Flood Watch maps are on the Map page of the www.cordemergency.ca website. They identify waterfront properties that have a potential risk of flooding, based on current forecast and projected elevation modelling. Area lakes are at or have surpassed full pool and will continue to rise in the coming weeks and adjacent residents should take steps to protect their property.
All Evacuation Alerts and Orders remain in effect. No new Alerts or Orders have been issued. For updated orders, alerts and other locations, visit www.cordemergency.ca/map.
Late yesterday afternoon the BC River Forecast Centre upgraded the Okanagan including Mission Creek to a Flood Watch. Please refer to the River Forecast Centre website for the latest updates on Watches and Advisories: http://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/warnings/index.htm.
Be Prepared
Aside from sandbagging, citizens can take measures to minimize damage by:
- removing items from below-ground basements and crawlspaces
- being prepared to leave at a moment’s notice by gathering all essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance) and immediate care needs for dependants
- preparing to move any disabled persons and/or children, and pets and/or livestock to a safe area
- arranging accommodation for your family, if possible
- signing up for e-updates at www.cordemergency.ca for the most current information regarding the flood
Sand and Sandbags
More than 120 truckloads of sand was deposited yesterday at 25 locations throughout the Central Okanagan. Again today, crews will continue to replenish sand and sandbags. As well, 100,000 additional sandbags was delivered for distribution across the region. Please check www.cordemergency.ca/map for updates on sand locations.
For tips on filling and placing sandbags, visit www.cordemergency.ca/beprepared/flood-faq.
Safety
Fast flowing water and the adjacent riverbanks are potentially unsafe. Don't approach washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts, and keep away from creek and riverbanks. Boaters should keep speeds down to reduce shoreline erosion and should watch for floating debris.
Water Quality Advisories
A number of Water Quality Advisories and Boil Water Notices are in place throughout the Central Okanagan. Check with your water service provider for the most up-to-date information.
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 https://twitter.com/CO_Emerg and https://www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency. For more information, contact the Information Office at 250-469-8490 or 1-877-569-8490 (toll-free).
