Photo: David Ogilvie

File Photo: Flood barriers holding back Okanagan Lake in 2017

Lake levels continue to rise. 

As of this morning, the Lake Level Report had Ellison Lake (426.63), Okanagan Lake (342.54) and Kalamalka Lake (391.88) above "full pool." 

It is expected the lake levels will continue to rise further.

The Central Okanagan Regional District is continuing its work to provide flood protection measures.

The public is being asked to help, not hinder the efforts.

It stated in a press release: "Emergency crews are undertaking prioritized installation of flood protection measures. Boaters, motorists and pedestrians can help the emergency response by avoiding flood protection worksites to ensure crews can work unimpeded."

Boaters are asked to avoid creating wakes close to vulnerable shorelines. A boat’s wake can result in damaging wave action that can dismantle or impede flood protection measures. Boaters should refrain from travelling within 300 metres of the shoreline and make no wake.  Boaters are reminded that spring runoff has deposited significant debris in area lakes and to be extra vigilant for hazards.

Region-wide flood protection measures that were put in place for possible creek flooding, including bladder dams and sandbags, are now being redeployed to areas vulnerable to lake flooding.

Today, members of the Canadian Armed Forces, BC Wildfire contractors, municipal staff are working in Green Bay in West Kelowna installing flood protection measures, including work on private property, to protect key water, sewer and electrical public infrastructure. 

The press release also stated: "Unless work is required to ensure continuous protection of public infrastructure, private property owners are responsible for the protection of their own property and should ensure flood protection measures are equivalent to what was put in place during last year’s flooding."

Adding, "We understand you are curious, but motorists and pedestrians are asked to avoid travelling to flood worksites. Increased traffic and pedestrian congestion impede emergency personnel from effectively working. Traffic control personnel will turn all but local traffic away from active worksites."