Travelsmart
Flood preparations in response to rising lake levels have been underway throughout the week. Okanagan Lake rose 2.5 cm yesterday; the lake level is now at 342.779. Heading into the long weekend, there are some safety considerations for residents and visitors while taking in activities in the Central Okanagan.
Boating Safety and Docks
Boating on Central Okanagan Lakes is not recommended due to safety and wave action concern. Boaters who choose to access local lakes are asked to use extreme caution and watch for floating debris. Boaters are also asked to keep their speeds and wakes down to reduce shoreline erosion from preventable wave action. In preparation of potential flooding, docks or boats must be properly secured.
In preparation of potential flooding, docks or boats must be properly secured. Some tips include:
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- If anchored, make sure the anchor lines are long enough, so they don’t snap if water rises too high
- Ensure boats are secured
- If you have a pull-up dock, pull it up as high as possible
- Secure the dock using sandbags or weighted barrels on the edges of the dock
- Remove all loose items from the dock, but do not clean any debris from shoreline
- Stay away from fast moving waters
- Boat owners with boats on lifts may choose to remove their boat from the lift and trailer it for safe storage.
Waterfront Beaches and Parks
Flood preparations and rising water levels have impacted access to some beaches and waterfront parks across the region. The public is asked to not touch flood protective measures that have been put in place throughout the region. Sand bag walls, bladder dams and gabion barriers have been placed with care to protect infrastructure and property and should not be climbed on or altered in any way.
For current information on the status of boat launches, waterfront park and beach closures or partial closures refer to the local governments websites (links below). To find information about the many opportunities to exploring the region’s parks and activities, refer to local websites or www.tourismkelowna.com.
Keep Debris in Place
Debris washed up on beaches should be left there for the time being. Please do not remove logs and other wood material as it helps limit erosion caused by wave action. When the flood risk has passed, officials will provide notification of how the beach debris will be removed.
See the most up to date information on sand and sandbag locations click here.
Regional Websites:
Regional District of Central Okanagan
City of KelownaCity of West Kelowna
District of Lake Country
District of Peachland
North Okanagan Regional District
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