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Central Okanagan

Update: Flood watch continues

by Grant Scott - Story: 76649
Jun 17, 2012 / 8:03 am

Photo: Contributed - David Cooper

The Shuswap river begins to flood, taken for Castanet by David Cooper June 15.

Update: The BC River Forecast Centre’s high streamflow advisory remains in effect throughout most of Central BC on Sunday, including Mission Creek. Also the Shuswap river in the Enderby area remains on a flood watch.

With the recent wet weather and continued high elevation snow-melt, the Centre says the risk remains.

The Trans-Canada Highway has re-opened in both directions 8 km west of Revelstoke after debris on road forced the closure of the route.

Photo: Kelly Hayes

City crews work to stop Mission Creek from flooding.

The Regional District Emergency Program has issued a warning that with more rain in the forecast through the weekend for the Central Okanagan and area lakes at extremely high levels, waterfront property owners and those in low lying areas near creeks and streams should take the steps needed to protect their property.

Property owners living around lakes are encouraged to be on the alert for possible damage to docks and other waterfront structures resulting from high water levels and wave action.

The district also advises that leaving wood debris that has washed up on the shoreline will help reduce potential waterfront erosion.

All boaters and those water-skiing or wake-boarding are asked to help reduce any potential shoreline erosion from waves by keeping speeds and wakes down especially when near the shoreline. Also, stay alert for any potential floating hazards brought into area lakes from the creek runoff.

As well, Emergency Program officials recommend that anyone walking near creeks and streams continue to use caution. Keep children and pets safely back from creek banks, which may be slippery or subject to erosion by the higher, swifter moving water. As well, stay alert for possible unexpected rapid increases in creek water levels.

Anyone noticing a potential problem or flooding concern in the Central Okanagan is asked to call the Regional Fire Dispatch at: 250-469-8801. Sandbags are available at local fire halls for any property owner facing imminent danger from flooding.

In the event of an emergency and activation of the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre (EOC), the latest information will be available online at the new EOC Public Information website or the Emergency Management BC website.

If you see flooding in your area, email news@castanet.