Rise in temperatures to bring runoff

Rising temperatures means spring runoff, and the regional district is advising property owners to be ready for it.

Temperatures are expected to rise to 18 to 24 degrees Celsius over the next seven-day period throughout the district, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada. This could result in increased melting of snowpacks, leading to above-average spring freshet (runoff) in the coming weeks.

Property owners are reminded 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 before freshet begins is something residents can do to help prevent or minimize potential damage from flooding. Now is the time to prepare if you live in vulnerable areas, on or near floodplains, or if you have experienced spring flooding previously.

Rapidly melting snowpacks can overwhelm stream channels and cause localized flooding. Spring freshet can also destabilize soil and rocks, causing unpredictable mudslides, landslides and rockslides.

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. The regional district and Emergency Management BC will provide sand and sandbags for property owners as needed when there is an imminent threat of flooding.

Visit the RDOS Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) website for updates, resource links and preparedness tips. You can also find updated sand and sandbagging locations and information about how you can prevent the spread of COVID-19. Sandbag centres will open throughout the district as needed to help you protect your property from flooding.