Less rain than expected eases flooding concerns

Intense rainstorms predicted for the Salmon Valley did not deliver as much rain as expected over the weekend, greatly reducing concerns about severe flooding on the Salmon River.

The Columbia Shuswap Regional District said Sunday afternoon lower-than-forecasted temperatures also contributed to reducing snow melt at higher elevations in the Shuswap, which helped moderate water flows in creeks and streams.

Weather forecasts for the coming week are also showing cooler, drier weather, which will continue to assist with reducing flood risks.

However, the Shuswap Emergency Program is closely monitoring water levels on Shuswap Lake and Mara Lake, which may still present some flooding challenges. Sandbagging work will continue this week for flood-prone areas near these lakes and to protect public infrastructure in the City of Salmon Arm and the District of Sicamous.