2022 spring freshet and potential flooding update

News Article

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) is reminding residents and property owners to prepare now for potential flooding. Weather events beginning June 16 include thunder showers with a mix of rain and sunny weather, which may cause water levels to increase and stronger river flows.

The most recent River Forecast Centre Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin indicates the flood risk has increased considerably due to colder May temperatures and delayed snowmelt. The Evacuation Alert issued June 3, 2022 remains in place for 18 properties along Tulameen River Road.

With snowpacks currently between 153% and 165%  in the RDOS, rain events have the potential to increase the flow of rivers, creeks, and tributaries that may affect homes in low lying areas or known floodplains. Property owners should be proactive and remove personal items that may be damaged by high ground water or flooding. Sandbag locations are also listed on the interactive sandbag map. Please visit emergency.rdos.bc.ca for tips and information and to view the RDOS sandbagging video.

Emergency preparedness also includes having a plan to ensure your family and pet’s needs are considered before an unexpected event occurs. Pre-planning, including having emergency kits with enough supplies for 72 hours and having fuel in generators, can help your family cope should conditions change suddenly.  

Sign up for emergency alerts and routine notifications
The RDOS has partnered with Voyent Alert! to provide routine and emergency notifications throughout the region. Sign up now  to receive email, text or phone notifications, or download the Voyent Alert! app through the App Store or Google Play. Once you’ve registered, you are automatically signed up for emergency notifications.

The EOC is monitoring conditions and will activate if required. If you notice flooding or other issues, please call the EOC at 250-490-4225 or the provincial Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-800-663-3456. In case of an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

 

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

 

Contacts:

Sean Vaisler
RDOS Manager of Emergency Services
250-490-4128

 

Erick Thompson

Andrea Rendall

 

RDOS Toll Free

RDOS Communications                 

RDOS Communications

 

1-877-610-3737

250-490-4211    

250-490-4147

 

 

 

Definitions you should know

  • Flood Warning: River levels have exceeded bankfull or will exceed bankfull imminently, and flooding of areas adjacent to affected rivers will result.
  • Flood Watch: River levels are rising and will approach or may exceed bankfull. Flooding of areas adjacent to affected rivers may occur.
  • High Streamflow Advisory: River levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, but no major flooding is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

 

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