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File photo of drought conditions in Kalamalka Provincial Park (Image Credit: ID 59301229 © Katyenka | Dreamstime.com)
By Liam Verster
Severe Drought Conditions

Okanagan at Drought Level 4 for fifth week

Jul 16, 2026 | 11:10 AM

Severe drought conditions persist through the Okanagan and surrounding regions.

The B.C. River Forecast Centre ranked the Okanagan at Drought Level 4 for the fifth straight week Thursday, July 16.

The ranking indicated severely dry conditions that were impacting stream flows and water temperatures, posing a risk to fish populations.

The persistent conditions, coupled with high temperatures and very little chance of precipitation in the forecast, also raised concerns about water supply, and people were advised to follow their municipal water restrictions. 

The Okanagan was one of five basins at Drought Level 4 Thursday. Other regions with the designation, which was the second-highest possible drought level, included South Thompson, Nicola, Similkameen, and East Vancouver Island. There were no areas ranked at Drought Level 5 Thursday.

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by Liam Verster
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What Matters

Firearm Charges, Vehicle Impounded
Weapon seized from impaired driver asleep in Lumby
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