Dale Boyd

Times-Chronicle

Strong thunderstorms forecasted for late Saturday, followed by significant rainfall on Sunday could strain local rivers, as the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) tells property owners in historic flood areas that now is the time to prepare.

A significant change in the weather will arrive on Saturday as a low pressure system enters B.C. from Washington State, according to a special weather statement issued May 29 by Environment and Climate Change Canada for the North, South and Central Okanagan.

“Ahead of the low Saturday afternoon, atmospheric conditions are potentially conducive to strong thunderstorms with frequent lightning and very strong wind gusts. Heavy rain may accompany these storms.”

Widespread rainfall is expected to accompany the low pressure system Saturday night and Sunday which may strain local rivers.

For more information on river flow forecasts, and flood warning and advisories, visit the BC River Forecast Centre website at: http://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/warnings/index.htm

The South Okanagan is currently under a high streamflow advisory (as of noon Friday) with river levels rising or expected to rise rapidly, but that no major flooding is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

The regional district’s Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) released a statement on May 29 reminding residents and visitors to stay safe around waterways.

“Please be aware of the potential freshet or spring melt which can result in higher than normal spring runoff.”

As a result, waterways including rivers, creeks and drainages could become hazardous. Spring freshet can destabilize soil and rock as well, causing mudslides, landslides and rock slides which are unpredictable.

“Please stay alert near or around waterways due to the potential for sudden changes in conditions. As of May 28, 2020 no immediate risks have been identified,” the RDOS stated.

The River Forecast Centre has indicated higher than usual water around the Ashnola River and Similkameen River and other small and medium waterways.

“Now is an opportunity for property owners in vulnerable areas, on or near floodplains, or those who have experienced spring flooding in the past, to be ready.”

The RDOS has developed a COVID-19 sandbagging video to help residents prepare for freshet while maintaining physical distancing.