Lyonel Doherty, Times Chronicle
While the RDOS is reminding property owners to prepare for potential flooding, regional directors in Oliver and Osoyoos aren’t too worried yet.
“At this point in time I am not aware of any sites that are at risk of flooding in rural Osoyoos,” said Area A director Mark Pendergraft, who noted the only mountain with much snow left on it is Mt. Baldy, and for the most part, the majority of that runoff doesn’t flow toward Osoyoos.
“As I understand it there is very little risk of flooding on the lake (in Osoyoos) as Okanagan Lake above us is no where near full pool yet,” Pendergraft said.
The director said there could be a slight risk of the Similkameen River backing up Lake Osoyoos, but normally that only occurs when Okanagan Lake is getting close to full and lots of water is being released from there.
“So all in all I believe we might be okay this year but will not go so far as to say we are absolutely safe.”
Area C director Rick Knodel said that creeks and streams in rural Oliver look “pretty good” at the moment.
“Park Rill is running well,” he noted, but added that Wolf Cub Creek could possibly flood due to the snowpack on Mt. Baldy.
Knodel said Vaseux Lake could see high water, but he doesn’t think that will cause Okanagan River to flood.
The director said his present concern is for the flood-prone Similkameen area.
The River Forecast Centre Snow Survey and Water Supply Bulletin issued on May 15 indicates the flood risk has increased considerably due to colder May temperatures and delayed snow melt.
Continued cool weather is increasing the risk for flooding if a prolonged heatwave occurs over the next few weeks.
According to the River Forecast Centre, the unprecedented and catastrophic flooding in November 2021 has made many rivers more vulnerable to high freshet flows. People are urged to use caution around streams, lakes and rivers where water levels may be rising or fast-moving. It’s also important to stay clear of eroded banks.
