Proactive Spring Freshet/Flood Preparations

Due to the heavy snowpack and late spring warming, some degree of flooding on Middle Vernon Creek, Wood Lake and Kalamalka Lake is likely. Okanagan Lake is considered to be at low risk for flooding. Officials continue to monitor the levels and flows of area creeks, streams and lakes.

As a proactive measure, sandbagging stations have been set up at Beasley Park parking lot (3450 Woodsdale Rd) and Oyama isthmus (across from Oyama Fire Hall) – bring your shovel and muscle.  Those property owners that have had issues in the past with flooding are encouraged to take a look at their flood preparation plans.  It’s a good time to review and update the steps they take each year to protect and prepare their property from potential flood damage. Property owners are reminded they are responsible for having a plan as well as the tools and equipment necessary to protect their properties from possible flood damage. Everyone is reminded to practice physical distancing while filling and collecting sandbags.

Residents should use extreme caution and keep children and pets away from creek banks which can be very slippery and subject to erosion.  Water levels and flows may rise unexpectedly. 

As in past years, boaters are reminded to keep speeds down when near the shoreline to reduce potential wake erosion.  As well, watch for floating debris flowing into area lakes due to the higher flows.

District of Lake Country water utility staff continue to diligently monitor our watersheds and take appropriate proactive action.  Watch lakecountry.bc.ca and the District Facebook feed for updates.

Links to information and pamphlets on flood preparedness including a recommended method for sandbag diking are available on the Be Prepared page of the Central Okanagan Emergency Program website cordemergency.ca and on the Prepared BC website.  There is also information available for areas that might be susceptible to land slippage or movement.