As back-to-back storms continue to hit BC, the cumulative rainfall and flash snowpack melts may cause the Similkameen River (originating in Manning Park) to rise suddenly again.
Village of Keremeos staff and contracted professionals are continuing to work with the RDOS Emergency Operations Centre to monitor upstream indicators and prepare.
Meanwhile, it is important for all Keremeos residents to be ready for emergencies and be aware of risks. A few ways for you to prepare:
- Develop a personal emergency plan for severe weather events today, not during an evacuation alert! The following link contains a checklist of things to consider. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/know-your-hazards/severe-weather
- Build a household emergency kit with enough non-perishable food, water and supplies to sustain your household for a week.
- For residents living along Similkameen River flood plains, store valuables and important items or documents in water-tight containers or in higher places, such as on a tall shelf or upper floor.
- Think about friends or relatives outside of the risk area that you could tentatively stay with, if necessary. In emergencies where multiple locations are impacted, motel spaces fill up quickly.
If you observe an extreme weather event unfolding, be aware of additional risks:
- Keep away from river and streams, including dikes. Riverbanks and dike surfaces that look stable can be eroded beneath the surface causing unstable ground that could collapse.
- Be mindful of falling trees. Strong winds and heavy rainfalls can down trees, especially those trees that were weakened by last summer’s drought.
- Driving
- Do not drive into areas under water
- The depth of water is not always obvious. The roadbed may be washed out under the water and sink holes could exist but be unseen.
- Approximately 15 centimetres (six inches) of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling, and 30.5 centimetres (a foot) of water will float many vehicles.
- If a car begins to flood, abandon it quickly and get to higher ground.
- Consider putting a kit of emergency provisions in your car (e.g. water, blanket, TP) in case you must spend extended periods in your vehicle.
- Before driving away from emergency conditions, check that your routes is clear. For the latest on road conditions online: Drivebc.ca
- Do not drive into areas under water
For further guidance on preparing for potential flooding, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/know-your-hazards/floods
Continue to monitor the RDOS website for regional updates on emerging issues rdos.bc.ca