Flood defences challenged again by gusty winds
Probably the worst news we could receive is gusty wind forecast for our region. Okanagan Lake at its current level will prove to be a nightmare for the defences established to protect the shoreline and waterfront infrastructure.
Flood defences challenged again by gusty winds – News Release #107
Central Okanagan, B.C. – Flood protection defences across the Central Okanagan are expected to be in for another test by Mother Nature today. Southerly winds gusting to 60 kilometres an hour are in the forecast by Environment Canada.
Gusty winds and lake levels that are more than 70 centimetres above full pool have caused extreme wave action pounding sandbags, gabion cages and tiger dams set up by residents and local governments across the region. Everyone should leave their flood protection in place and check on them daily. As needed, repair and replace them to ensure adequate protection from wave generated erosion and flooding.
A Southerly Winds Advisory map is available www.cordemergency.ca and indicates areas of the Central Okanagan that could potentially be impacted by southerly wind generated wave action.
While no one should be removing any sandbags or protection measures at this time, plans are being finalized for the demobilization of these flood defences. At no time should any sandbags be emptied into any area creeks or streams or environmentally sensitive areas. Anyone doing so could be subject to fines and prosecution under various environmental statutes.
This morning Environment and Climate Change Canada reported Okanagan Lake at 343.213 metres above sea level, a 5 millimetre decrease over the 343.218 metre level measured yesterday morning.
Residents are reminded that lake levels may fluctuate up and down based on the weather and ground water may remain high for a period of time.
Those residents and businesses that have been impacted by flooding, may qualify for financial support. Applications to the Provincial Disaster Financial Assistance program must be submitted to Emergency Management BC by August 5th. Information is available online at www.gov.bc.ca/disasterfinancialassistance. In addition, the Red Cross has a financial assistance program to help eligible BC residents whose households were evacuated and damaged by flood waters. Register online at www.redcross.ca/gethelp or by calling 1-800-863-6582.
For more information, visit www.cordemergency.ca, sign up for e-updates or call the information line at 250-469-8490.
For municipal information such as boat launch, park and beach closures, and water quality advisories, visit their websites:
City of Kelowna
City of West Kelowna
District of Lake Country
District of Peachland
Regional District of Central Okanagan
Westbank First Nation
