An anticipated cold front and rain toward the end of the weekend has prompted a high water warning by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen.
The regional district’s emergency operations centre is reminding residents and visitors to stay safe around waterways.
“Please be aware of the potential freshet or spring melt which can result in higher than normal spring runoff,” read a release by the district on May 29.
As a result, the district explained, waterways including rivers, creeks and drainages could become hazardous. In addition, the regional district said spring freshet can destabilize soil and rock, causing mudslides, landslides and rock slides which are unpredictable.
Higher than average water around the Ashnola Rover and Similkameen River, and other small and medium waterways, has been indicated by the River Forecast Centre. However, as of May 28, the regional district said no immediate risks had been identified.
“Now is an opportunity for property owners in vulnerable areas, on or near floodplains, or those who have experienced spring flooding in the past, to be ready,” said the regional district.
In British Columbia, property owners are responsible for taking the necessary steps to assess and protect their property.
For more information, visit http://emergency.rdos.bc.ca or call 250-490-4225. Sign up for routine and emergency notifications: https://emergency.rdos.bc.ca/civic-ready.
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