Spring runoff/Vernon Matters Staff

By Vernon Matters Staff

Warming temperatures

Rapid snowmelt, Okanagan creek levels up, closures: Video

May 5, 2025 | 10:10 AM

Spring runoff is making its presence known across the Okanagan, with creeks running high and fast, and water features like Fintry Falls roaring as snowmelt continues.

The annual freshet is underway, and while provincial snowpack levels are lower than normal this year, rapid melting since mid-April is causing sharp increases in local streamflow. As of May 1, 15 per cent of the provincial snowpack has already melted — a faster rate than in recent years — raising concerns for erosion, flooding and debris in area waterways.

Mission Creek is among the affected systems, prompting the closure of the Casorso Road underpass along the Mission Creek Greenway in Kelowna. The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) says high water and bank erosion have created unsafe conditions in the area. A temporary crosswalk has been installed for pedestrians and cyclists, and the public is urged to obey posted signs and use caution.

“Even with below-average snowpack, creeks can rise quickly during spring runoff,” the RDCO said in a public advisory. “People, especially children and pets, should remain back from creek banks, which can become unstable or slippery.”

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Warm, dry weather is expected to continue into mid-May, with no major heatwaves forecast. Still, officials warn that even modest warming or isolated storms could push water levels higher.

Boaters on Okanagan Lake are being advised to watch for floating or submerged debris flushed into the lake by creeks. Trails along Mission Creek and in Scenic Canyon Regional Park will continue to be monitored as runoff progresses.

For updates on trail conditions and closures, residents can visit rdco.com/parks. The province’s next Snow and Water Supply Bulletin is expected to be released May 8 or 9.