Prepare for spring freshet

News Article

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) is reminding property owners to take appropriate measures to protect their property and buildings from potential rising waters and drainage issues. Taking proactive measures and assessing property and buildings for drainage issues before freshet begins, is a proactive measure to help prevent or minimize potential damage.

Warmer temperatures are in the forecast, and that means spring melt may begin soon. Now is the time to prepare if you live in vulnerable areas, on or near floodplains within the RDOS, or if you have previously experienced spring flooding. Homeowners and residents in the community of Tulameen should be aware that the lake is currently rising. Due to the atmospheric river event, large amounts of debris have collected in areas along several rivers and streams. Please see the links below for current information about freshet conditions throughout the region. The RDOS is in the process of activating sandbag centres in high-risk areas. Sand and sandbag locations will be posted at emergency.rdos.bc.ca.

Emergency preparedness also includes establishing plans to ensure your family and pet’s needs are considered before an unexpected event occurs. Pre-planning will help your family cope with the stress of dealing with an Evacuation Alert or Order.

In British Columbia, property owners are responsible for taking the necessary steps on their property to protect their homes and property from flooding, while government emergency programs focus on broader flood response measures. Visit www2.gov.bc.ca to learn more about flood response and the environment.

Penticton Home & Reno Show
RDOS Emergency Management staff and volunteers will have a booth at the 26th annual  Penticton Home & Reno Show on April 2 and 3, 2022, at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. Information will be available about emergency preparedness, FireSmart activities, and how you can take steps to prepare your home and property.

Sandbag Centres

 Sandbag centres are opening throughout the Regional District to help you protect your property from localized flooding caused by freshet

  • Information about COVID-19 procedures can be found at each sandbag centre and on the EOC website: emergency.rdos.bc.ca
  • Report flooding or depleted sand or sandbags to the EOC: 250-490-4225

  Helpful links

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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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contacts:

Sean Vaisler
RDOS Manager of Emergency Services
250-490-4218

Erick Thompson

Andrea Rendall

 

RDOS Toll Free

RDOS Communications                 

RDOS Communications

 

1-877-610-3737

250-490-4211    

250-490-4147

 

 

 2022 KVR Trail Tulameen

 KVR Trail, Tulameen (courtesy of Fire Chief Woodford)

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