Image of Shuswap (Image credit: CFJC)
FLOOD WATCH

Flood concerns growing in Shuswap

Jun 18, 2022 | 10:03 AM

SALMON ARM — Unstable weather patterns are causing concerns about flooding in the Shuswap region.

The BC Rivers Forecast Centre says while initial predictions indicated Shuswap Lake may peak this week or early next week, the risk of flooding could continue into July.

“The melting of high-level snowpacks continued to be delayed, which is also contributing to the potential for very high-water levels in Shuswap-area watersheds, as well as in the Thompson and Okanagan,” the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) release reads.

A large portion of the region remains on Flood Watch status, including the Seymour River, Eagle River, Adams River, Shuswap River and surrounding tributaries.

“The unstable weather is continuing to pose a risk for debris flows, particularly in the Wiseman Creek area of the District of Sicamous. Due to these unsettled weather patterns, the Shuswap Emergency Program (SEP) will be leaving the Evacuation Alert in place for the 27 residences in the Sicamous Creek Mobile Home Park until further notice,” the CSRD release adds.

It’s been reported that BC Wildfire Service crews were brought in this week to assist with sandbagging efforts of critical infrastructure in the City of Salmon Arm.

They also are around pump and lift stations in the District of Sicamous.

The CSRD adds that “sand and sandbags will continue to be made available to private landowners looking to protect their property. Residents are reminded that to be most effective, sandbags should be placed on high ground, as close as possible to homes or buildings.”

More information on the situation in the Shuswap can be found at CSRD/news.