The City has activated its Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) as a proactive measure in response to rising levels on Okanagan Lake. While the lake levels are still within the normal range expected for this time of year, there is some uncertainty as to how high the lake will rise given the expected precipitation in the forecast. We are continuing to monitor the situation and shifting weather conditions.
Current News and Information
Review current information and news about the risk of flooding on Okanagan Lake and the City's response.
The City of Penticton Emergency Operations Centre continues to monitor water levels in Okanagan Lake.
Though the lake is above full pool, it has stabilized. Lake levels remain well below 2017's flood levels, and are still below 2020.
With weather forecasts predicting the possibility of further rain early next week, the EOC will be prepared to react to any heavy precipitation weather and will monitor wave action on the shoreline.
SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
The City’s Emergency Operations Centre is continuing to monitor lake levels as the rainy weather is replaced with warmer than average temperatures and further melting of the snow pack. Lake levels continue to be within the range of normal for this time of year. With the change in weather, residents are advised to consider the following:
- Creek levels are expected to rise as the snow pack melts. Please exercise caution near creek banks, particularly with children and pets, and be aware of potential hazards.
- With warmer temperatures, the City is expecting that people will want to float the channel. Floaters are reminded that the water is moving very quickly and are asked to follow these safety guidelines:
- Be aware of your surroundings, snags under water, shoreline branches etc.
- Wear a life jacket if you are not a swimmer or in fast moving water, like the Penticton Channel.
- Do not tie floaties together in Penticton Channel, it’s dangerous.
- Avoid alcohol while participating in water activities.
- Call 911 if you are experiencing or witness a water emergency.
- Anyone boating on Okanagan Lake is reminded to keep speeds down to prevent shoreline erosion and be extra vigilant as there are many logs and other debris floating in the lake at this time. Please ensure all boats and docks are properly secured against rising water levels.
- As temperatures rise, remember not to leave children or pets in your vehicle unattended. Life-threatening effects can occur in a short time in a hot car.
- Remember your hats and sunscreen. Sun and heat related illnesses can affect everyone, use the Province’s Extreme Heat Preparedness Guide to get ready.
SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
With shifting weather patterns, the City of Penticton Emergency Operations Centre continues to assess monitor water levels in Okanagan Lake.
Warmer temperatures are forecast for the start of this week, while sporadic showers remain a possibility. Lake levels continues to rise and are expected to for the immediate future.
The EOC will monitor incoming weather and its impacts on the lake, including wind gusts and wave action on the shoreline. Lake levels still remain below 2017's flood levels, and is still below 2020.
The City of Penticton EOC, with assistance from BC Wildfire Crews, have filled 10,000 sandbags to be deployed as needed. As well, staff are ensuring resources are in place to take quick action if the situation changes significantly.
SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
The City of Penticton Emergency Operations Centre continues to monitor water levels in Okanagan Lake.
Lake levels continues to rise, but the rate of rise has slowed. Lake levels still remain well below 2017's flood levels, and is still below 2020.
The EOC continues to monitor incoming weather and its impacts on the lake, including wave action on the shoreline.
BC Wildfire Crews have been assisting the City with sandbag operations, including 10,000 bags for reserve. Additionally bags have been placed around the Penticton Yacht Club located at a lower lying level within municipal jurisdiction as an additional precautionary measure.
NEWS RELEASE
Residents are advised that the City of Penticton has activated its Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) as a proactive measure in response to rising levels on Okanagan Lake.
While the lake levels are still within the normal range expected for this time of year, there is some uncertainty as to how high the lake will rise given the expected precipitation in the forecast. “We have activated the EOC so that we can access resources and coordinate efforts,” said the City’s Emergency Operations Centre Director Anthony Haddad. “Recognizing that this will be a slow moving event, we have plenty of time to prepare for any protective measures, should they be required over the next few weeks.”
The City will start to source gabion bins and beach-ready sand to use to protect the Okanagan Lakeshore if required. Residents on low-lying properties along the Okanagan Lakeshore who are concerned about flooding will have access to bags and sand at Fire Hall #2 at 285 Dawson Avenue beginning tomorrow.
The City will also take steps to mitigate the potential of any localized flooding around the Penticton Yacht Club, which has occurred in the past as the lake approaches the current levels. Residents can expect to see crews sandbagging around the area over the next few days.
More information about the City’s response to the risk of flooding is available at www. penticton.ca.
SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Water levels in Okanagan Lake have reached full pool, having continually risen over the past week due to increased rainfall in the Central and South Okanagan. The Penticton Fire Department and City crews are monitoring lake levels and will act on armouring the lakefront with sandbags or tiger dams to prevent damage if levels continue to rise. The City will notify the community should these measures need to be implemented. The City provides the following information as a precaution:
- Residents in low-lying and waterfront areas that may be affected by flooding from rising lake levels are encouraged to stay informed. Sandbags will be made available to City residents should water levels reach the threshold for response activation.
- The Penticton Fire Department and City crews are monitoring the situation and on standby and are prepared to deal with emergencies should they arise. To report flooding contact the City at 250-490-2400 (after hours call 250-490-2324). Call 911 if you feel your personal safety is at risk.
- Anyone boating on Okanagan Lake is reminded to keep speeds down to prevent shoreline erosion and be extra vigilant as there are many logs and other debris floating in the lake at this time. Please ensure all boats and docks are properly secured against rising water levels.
- Homes located in the low lying areas with high ground water may start to see water seepage into their basements due to the higher than usual lake levels. As a preventative measure, homeowners should inspect their basement or crawl space sump pumps to ensure they are operating correctly.
- Updates will be provided through City of Penticton communication channels as required. The City now offers an Emergency Text Notification service to alert residents about evacuation alerts and orders through their mobile phones. Visit www.penticton.ca/subscribe to register.
How to Protect Your Property
If your residence is in a low-lying area and is at risk of flooding, sandbags can be used to protect your property. To fill your own sandbags, you can drop by our self-serve facility located behind Fire Hall No. 202 (285 Dawson Ave).
Visit the Fire Department’s Emergency Preparedness page for information about steps to take to prepare for any emergency. It also provides details about what to do during an emergency or an evacuation order.
Also review B.C.'s Flood Preparedness Guide for tips for how to prepare your home and property for flood.
Flooding is a common, naturally occurring event in B.C. If you face a threatening flood situation, park vehicles away from streams and waterways, move electrical appliances to upper floors and make sure to anchor fuel supplies. Listen to local officials if you are asked to evacuate.
Here are a few things you can do to the exterior of your home:
- Enhance landscaping so water drains away from the foundation.
- Ensure water from downspouts drains away from your residence.
- Clean your gutters regularly.
- Maintain your perimeter drains regularly.
- Keep nearby storm drains clear of debris.
Source: Government of BC. Find out more by reading the Province of BC's Flood Preparedness Guide.
During an Emergency
For information about emergency procedures, visit our Emergency Updates page. We'll also be posting information to this page as well as the City's social media channels.
In the case of an emergency, try these sources for updates:
- Updates from authorities over radio or television
- City of Penticton Emergency Text Alerts: www.penticton.ca/subscribe
- Facebook: follow City of Penticton – Municipality (@cityofpenticton)
- Twitter: @cityofpenticton and @pentictonfire
- Central Okanagan Emergency Operation on Twitter: @CO_Emerg
- City of Penticton Emergency Reception Centre, 325 Power Street, 250-490-2345
Contact Us
To report flooding, contact the City at 250-490-2400 (after hours call 250-490-2324).
Call 911 if you feel your personal safety is at risk.