Thunderstorms in forecast: prepare for flooding

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the Okanagan.

The weather agency says an unstable atmosphere will lead to widespread showers with the risk of embedded thunderstorms over southern B.C. this evening.

Rainfall amounts could range from 5 to 30 mm in areas affected by thunderstorms.

The heaviest precipitation is expected east of Okanagan Lake and into the Kootenays tonight.

The City of Armstrong is urging residents who live near the city’s two creeks to be prepared for possible flooding.

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“With the potential for heavy downpours and thunderstorms over the next 24-36 hours, total rainfall amounts will be highly variable, ranging from 5 mm to upwards of 30 mm in areas affected by thunderstorms,” said community services manager Warren Smith.

Meighan and Deep Creeks have had issues with flooding over the years.

The city reminds property owners that they are responsible for their own flood mitigation efforts. This includes but is not limited to:

• sandbagging,
• subscribing to flood insurance coverage; and
• creating an emergency kit.

“Please keep away from creeks and creek banks during high stream flows. Should you need it, a free sand bagging station is currently set up at the city’s Public Works Yard located at the corner of Patterson Ave and Becker Street,” Smith added.