City monitoring creeks and infrastructure with more rain on the way

Jun 12, 2020 | 12:32 PM

City of Vernon crews have been checking the creeks and infrastructure today, but there are no other new areas impacted by flooding.

Polson Park remains closed to vehicle traffic, but pedestrians are allowed to use the park.

Vernon Creek

“This could change if the creek level rises again, so residents are encouraged to keep an eye on our website,” Christy Poirier, the city’s communications manager said.

The city is asking the public to use extreme caution if entering Polson Park; to stay off the turf, and stay away from all creek banks and water.

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“City of Vernon crews are working to keep our creeks flowing and to minimize any potential impacts from heavy rains. This includes actively monitoring roughly 55 sites throughout the city and assessing these locations for hazards and clearing them of debris,” said Poirier.

Crews are also assessing city-owned properties affected by storm-water seepage and taking all necessary steps to curtail any potential damage

“If residents experience flooding on their private property, they are advised to contact a private restoration company. Flood protection for homes and private property is an owner’s responsibility. This responsibility includes having the necessary equipment ready to protect their homes and sandbagging if necessary,” Poirier added.

Residents can access sand and sandbags at two locations:

Behind City Yards off Pleasant Valley Road (1900 – 48 Avenue)
Kin Racetrack parking lot (3445 – 43 Avenue)

Under normal circumstances, two people can fill sandbags together but due to Covid-19, residents should practice safe physical distancing.

If residents see flooding or a creek blockage, they can call Operations Services: 250-549-6757 during the day; or 250-542-5361 during evenings and weekends.

At last report, the city had closed 24th Avenue (between 34th Street and 39th Street) to through traffic due to flooding along 24th Avenue and 34A Street.

Sandbags were placed along 24th Avenue and 36th Street due to high creek levels.

Environment Canada says Vernon’s official weather station at the Coldstream Ranch received 10.9 millimetres of rain Thursday, most of that during two short, but significant events.

The area could get another 10 to 30 mm of rain over the next couple days.

by Pete McIntyre

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