File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Aaron Schulze

Weather Watch

Flood watch issued in North Thompson; CSRD warns residents of landslides as heavy rainfall approaches

Sep 25, 2024 | 11:10 AM

KAMLOOPS — A flood watch was issued for some waters in the North Thompson.

At 9:00 a.m. Wednesday (Sept. 25), the BC River Forecast Centre issued a flood watch for tributary rivers around Blue River, Clearwater and surrounding areas.

The Water Survey of Canada gauge on the Blue River waterway indicated flows of approximately 14 m3/s. While it’s well below the one-year return period, the forecast centre says flows are continuing to rapidly rise and may exceed a two-year return period, or higher, as rainfall continues.

A high streamflow advisory remains in plans for most of the North Thompson, as well as the South Thompson, Upper Fraser River and Cariboo regions.

Meantime, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) is warning residents of the increased risk of landslides and flooding in areas affected by wildfire over the past five years.

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The warning comes as a late-season thunderstorm is likely to hit the Shuswap Wednesday and overnight. A severe thunderstorm watch was put in place late Wednesday morning.

“Landslides can happen quickly and without warning,” the CSRD states. “If you are living in an area impacted by wildfire and are concerned about the potential for heavy rain, consider leaving the area until the storm threat has passed. If you see or hear a landslide, it may be too late to evacuate. Get to the safest place in a building, which is on the highest level. Avoid basements.”

More information for CSRD residents can be accessed here.