With sunshine and warm weather in the forecast, the Emergency Operations Centre has a few reminders for residents and visitors heading out to enjoy weekend.
Wake-free lake options
Okanagan Lake dropped 0.4 centimetres to 343.14 metres above sea level overnight, compared to 343.144 metres yesterday morning. While local lakes have declined slowly over the last week, Okanagan Lake remains 66 centimetres above full pool so waves are still a concern. Kalamalka Lake dropped 2.1 centimetres to 392.325 metres above sea level.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to enjoy local lakes with wake-free options. Those choosing to use motorized watercraft are urged to be respectful – slow down and keep away from shore so wakes do not cause further erosion or flooding of lakeshore properties. Boaters also need to be cautious about wood debris floating under the surface of the lake and submerged infrastructure.
Visit local municipal and tourism websites to plan your visit to parks, beaches, trails and events across the Central Okanagan this weekend.
Sandbags
Redeployment of sandbags continues along upland creeks and areas above 343.5 metres in elevation. Crews are removing sandbags from public lands, and when possible from private property, to minimize ecological impact to creeks and streams no longer at risk of flooding.
Property owners along the lakeshore should keep flood protection measures in place and routinely assess and bolster flood protection as needed. Residents can visit this website to find locations of pre-filled sandbags, sandbags and sand.
Residents’ patience is appreciated while recovery efforts are coordinated. In the meantime, those wanting to drop off their sandbags at their own cost can do so at the following depots:
Kelowna
Cook Road Boat Launch parking lot – Lakeshore Road
Burtch Road – Apple Bowl Parking Lot
West Kelowna
More than 10 sand depots along the lakeshore - visit cordemergency.ca/map for locations
District of Lake Country
Woodsdale Road - Beasley Park Parking Lot
Under no circumstances should sandbags be emptied on beaches or into any creeks, wetland, beaches or other watercourses as outlined in the Water Sustainability Act. The impact can destroy fish habitat and affect drinking water, infrastructure, flood control, navigation and recreational activities. To report violations, call 1-877-952-7277, or #7277 on a cellphone.