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Beaches blocked for flood protection measures

Park closures at major Kelowna beaches flood protection measures
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Credit: Carli Berry/Capital News

As Okanagan Lake continues to rise, city crews have started installing flood barriers including bladder dams, gabion barriers and sandbags in a number of areas along the waterfront.

In the interest of public safety and protecting flood measures, beach areas at the following waterfront parks will be temporarily closed:

  • Sutherland Park
  • City Park
  • Lake Avenue Beach Access (south) to Burne Avenue Beach Access
  • Strathcona Park
  • Francis Avenue
  • Maude Roxby Bird Sanctuary
  • Kinsmen Park
  • Rotary Beach Park

These closures will be in effect until the flood has passed and crews are able to remove flood barriers from parks. Signage has been posted at the parks advising of the closure.

“The flood protection measures are in place along some of Kelowna’s beaches and waterfront parks to help reduce the effect of high water levels,” said Blair Stewart, parks services manager. “We can’t stress enough that the public should not approach, climb or jump on these pieces of equipment. We’ve made the call to close the beach areas until the flood protection measures can be removed.”

With over 200 parks in Kelowna, residents are encouraged to try out a new park during these temporary closures. Search for park amenities such as playgrounds, trails and sports fields using the Parks & Beaches Map at kelowna.ca/parks. Some free community events will also be taking place at City parks this weekend including the Rutland May Days and Parade in Rutland Centennial Park.

For more information on parks and beaches, visit kelowna.ca/parks.

For more information about flooding, visit cordemergency.ca.