A new month is underway and there is no change to the ever rising water levels in Okanagan lakes. It could be several more weeks before lake levels finally crest.
Thursday morning Environment Canada reported Okanagan Lake reached 343.17 m at 5:25 a.m., a two centimetre rise over yesterday morning when the lake level was reported as 343.15 m.
However, the peak has yet to come. An updated forecast for the Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre indicates Okanagan Lake levels could increase to a level of 343.25 m. With snow still remaining at higher mountain elevations, Okanagan Lake is predicted to peak around the middle of the month. Mission Creek levels and flows are also expected to continue to rise and residents are advised to prepare for higher levels.
While Kelowna missed the full brunt of the potential storm forecast last night, showers and possible thunderstorms are in the forecast for today. Crews across the Central Okanagan are continuing assessments on the condition of flood protection works and evaluating the need for repairs or additional measures. Property owners should do the same with their flood defences.
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Residents are reminded the weather is driving this event. Sudden changes in the weather could further increase the risk of flooding.
There are a number of evacuation alerts in place across the Central Okanagan. Check out the map at www.cordemergency.ca/map and search by address to determine if an area is under alert or order, or to find the closest sand and sandbag locations.
Residents and visitors are also asked during this state of emergency to stay out of flood-threatened neighbourhoods so that residents and emergency crews can properly do their work. Impacted properties are for local traffic only.
Central Okanagan property owners are reminded that if they are pumping water from homes or other structures, where possible they should pump into natural areas, nearby creeks, ditches or lawns and not into the sanitary sewer system as this can overtax water treatment facilities.
Residents and visitors should continue to find wake-free options to enjoy Okanagan Lake in the weeks ahead. Respectful operation of watercraft is urged so that boat wakes do not cause further erosion or flooding of lakeshore properties. Wake is just one of the concerns, as boaters need to be cautious about wood debris floating under the surface of the lake and submerged infrastructure.
While continuing to respond to the ongoing flood risks, Emergency Operations Centre personnel are also planning for the future demobilization and recovery period. Residents are reminded to keep all flood protection measures in place until the EOC issues information on what actions to take to begin the recovery.