EOC Update: Risk Assessments Underway

News Article

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) is actively working with provincial agencies and responders to assess flooded communities across the region.

The RDOS is currently conducting risk assessments of properties in Tulameen and Coalmont. The assessments include checking homes and driveways watching for potential dangers such as fallen or unstable trees, damaged gas and power lines, and water and sewage contamination.

Physical access to many areas is limited and may require air operations during daylight hours. Assessments are being conducted via air operations, ground, and gathering public information. Additional Evacuation Orders may be issued in the area. In addition, Search and Rescue crews are assessing properties along the Tulameen River to the Town of Princeton.

Please shelter in place if safe to do so and avoid all unnecessary travel. If you must leave your current location, check drivebc.ca for latest updates.

If your property is under Evacuation Order or Alert due to flooding, please register with the Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) tool or call 1-833-498-3770.

Tulameen – Coalmont

Residents and visitors are sheltering in place at the Tulameen and District Fire Hall. Other risk assessments in this area include condition of dykes, bridges and other infrastructure. Access is extremely compromised, trees and power lines. Do not attempt to use backroads or breach barricades in or out of the area. If you or your neighbour are in harm’s way, please call 9-1-1.

Town of Princeton

Please do not return to or go into your home if you have been evacuated. Crews are working to restore natural gas and water. Do not take any garbage to the landfill, please leave it in your front yard as the Town of Princeton determines next steps for clean-up.

The RDOS EOC continues to monitor flooding and high water across the region. The current situation is dynamic and constantly changing, the safety of first responders and the public remains paramount.

Many bridges, highways, roads and dykes are compromised, washed out or highly stressed. Please do not travel unless absolutely necessary. Do not visit flooding sites or high water areas or river systems for any reason. Do not use backcountry or Forest Service Roads, they may be eroded and their stability cannot be guaranteed.

The RDOS EOC is working with Indigenous communities, member municipalities, fire departments and community partners to ensure the safety of residents and provide the necessary supplies.

Helpful Links

For further information, please call the EOC during regular business hours Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm

Issued by EOC Director

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