Central Okanagan

Photo: Jennifer Zielinski

Mission Creek

Waterfront property owners are once again being reminded to watch for a potential unexpected rise in water levels as the wet weather continues.

Bruce Smith of the Regional District of the Central Okanagan says water levels are generally lower, but could rise again if there is any substantial rainfall.

"With the high lake water levels the Regional Emergency Program is asking all boaters, skiers and wakeboarders to keep their speeds and wakes down, especially when approaching the shoreline.  This will help to lessen the erosion impact from wave action during this period of high lake water levels."

Those on the lake should also watch for floating debris hazards that may have made their way into area lakes from local creeks and streams during the spring runoff.
 
Waterfront property owners that wish to remove any wood debris, have a couple of options. 

• Wood up to 20 cm in diameter that weighs 250 kg or less may be dropped off, free of charge at the City of Kelowna Glenmore Landfill or the Westside Residential Waste Disposal and Recycling Centre.
• Wood debris that’s less than 5 cm  in diameter and under one meter in length can be placed in their yard waste cart for their next curbside pickup.

 
Information and pamphlets on flood preparedness including a recommended method for sandbag diking are available from the Regional District of Central Okanagan office (1450 KLO Road) and the main City of Kelowna fire hall on Enterprise Way as well as on the Regional Emergency Operation Centre website www.cordemergency.ca and the Emergency Management BC website:  pep.bc.ca/floods/preparedness.html.
 
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.
 
Residents are asked to continue to exercise caution near any area creeks and streams.  Please keep children and pets safely back from creek banks, which may be slippery or subject to erosion by the higher, swifter moving water.  There is also the potential for unexpected rapid increases in creek water levels.