The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is urging residents to stay prepared after a flood watch has been issued for parts of southern B.C., including the East Kootenay and Upper Columbia regions.
Staff from the RDEK’s Flood Response Unit will be tracking conditions through the weekend. Residents are also asked to gear up and take advantage of the RDEK’s self-fill sandbag stations in flood-prone areas– one in Fairmont behind the old barn at Mountainside Golf Course on Hot Springs Road, and another in the lot south of the Elk River Inn on Highway 3 in Hosmer.
“Preparedness and safety are key,” said RDEK Protective Services Manager Christina Carbrey. “Know the numbers to call, have a family emergency plan, plan ahead now to protect your property from flooding if you are in a low-lying or flood-prone area, and ensure you stay well back from waterways as rapid, unpredictable changes in water levels are possible.”
Residents will need to bring their own shovels and gloves to the sandbag stations. New ones will be set up as required around the region.
Flood Watches are issued when river levels rise high enough to approach bankfull, which could trigger flooding. Environment Canada forecasts that rain could fall between a total of 40 and 60mm across the East Kootenay, with higher totals possible at high elevation.
“While precipitation at this time of year is generally welcome, the potential for heavy downpours within short periods of time in this approaching system does increase the potential for localized flooding, debris flows, and dangerous driving conditions, so we hope residents will monitor the situation and take action as needed,” added Carbrey.
You can report wide-scale floods by calling 250-489-9677. Other steps you can take to prepare for localized flooding or storms include:
- Writing down or saving the emergency line number in your phone
- Reviewing your family emergency plan
- Planning ahead to protect your property if you are in a low-lying area
- Staying well back from waterways
- Registering for the Regional Evacuation Notification System
More resources are available here.
Comments