Weather forecast prompts caution - News Release #70
Kelowna, B.C. – Winds forecasted for this evening will test flood protection measures with expected wind gusts from 40 to 60 kilometres per hour. The shoreline erosion from wave action along unprotected waterfront properties as area lakes levels continue to rise is an area of concern.
Waterfront property owners who haven’t taken measures to protect their structures and properties including the removal of boats from boatlifts should take measures now to minimize the impact of flooding and damage to private property.
A risk of falling trees within saturated ground conditions near lakes and creeks is high. The risk can be increased by high winds expected this evening.
Warmer temperatures later in the week will speed up the volume of snow melting at the higher elevation watersheds, further boosting creek flows and area lakes to rise.
To check whether a property needs flood protection, go to the Flood FAQs section of www.cordemergency.ca/beprepared, to get directions on how to measure for flood levels and build barriers to the appropriate height to account for both lake level flooding and wave action.
Sandbagging stations are stocked and replenished daily at several locations throughout the Central Okanagan. Volunteers are still welcome at sand piles to help with filling and loading sandbags. Visit www.cordemergency.ca/map to find the location closest to you.
Find information on flood preparation, including sand and sandbag locations, how to effectively build sandbag walls and secure docks at www.cordemergency.ca/beprepared/flood-faq. For municipal information such as boat launches, park and beach closures and water quality advisories, visit their websites:
