South Okanagan readies for floods

After unprecedented flood conditions last year, South Okanagan residents are being urged to start preparing now in case of a repeat.

The alert was issued by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, which is already getting calls from concerned property owners.

“We are seeing high groundwater levels, which in turn may create new areas of runoff when the snow melts,” said Paul Edmonds, the new RDOS emergency management program co-ordinator.

“Creeks, rivers and lakes are getting full. The snowmelt from the mountains may find new paths to move through and cause problems. If your property was flooded last year, or you think you may be affected this year, then act now.”

To help residents, the RDOS is already loading up on sandbags and figuring out where best to deploy them should the need arise.

Staff are also meeting with provincial counterparts to identify areas at risk of flooding and receiving updates on the levels in local lakes and rivers.

To prepare for possible flooding, homeowners are urged to take some precautionary measures: — Be aware if you’re in a flood risk area. — Prepare emergency kits in your home and car. — Have an emergency evacuation plan for people, pets and livestock. — Keep vehicle fuel tanks full. — Watch for warning signs in nearby waterways, like muddied water, debris and leaning trees.