Monitoring of Okanagan Lake by emergency crews and officials continues around the region.
The BC River Forecast Centre has indicated there is the potential for water levels to continue increasing in Okanagan Lake.
Environment Canada reported Okanagan Lake reached 343.05 metres at 11:25 a.m. on Saturday which is expected to increase to 343.13 m. This is a five-centimentre rise since May 26 at 4 a.m. when the lake level was reported as 343 m.
Residents and visitors to the Central Okanagan are reminded to leave flood protection measures in place and bolster them in preparation for high water and possibly windy conditions.
High lake levels and variable weather conditions are expected to persist for the foreseeable future.
The flows in Mission Creek are expected to increase significantly over the next few days with the forecasted hot weather. Crews are monitoring the area and evaluating options for further protection between Lakeshore Bridge and the mouth of Okanagan Lake.
Residents living along Mission Creek, especially those closer to the lake, are urged to reinforce the flood protection around their properties, due to increasing lake levels and the potential for backwater effect.
Sand and sandbag locations can be found here. Sand is continually being replenished.
The most up to date lake levels can be found on the Government of Canada’s website. The increase of lake levels being reported out by various agencies will depend on what time period is being used, and is likely the cause of some difference in the numbers being reported over the past week.
Residents are reminded that this is a weather driven event and things will continue to evolve with the weather. A sudden change in weather could increase the risk of flooding.
All evacuation alerts and orders remain in effect. Check out the map and search by address to determine if an area is under alert or order, or to find the closest sand and sandbag locations.
For more information, visit here, sign up for e-updates or call the information line at 250-469-8490.