100,000 Sandbags Provided By City

City of Vernon crews continue to monitor water levels on local creeks and lakes.

Okanagan Lake is still steadily rising and has surpassed record levels.

“Homeowners along the lake are reminded to remain vigilant about changing conditions and keep flood protection in place until further notice,” says a City release. “The City reminds residents that it is the property owner’s responsibility to take the appropriate measures to protect their property.”

Photo: Kin Beach on Okanagan Lake

The City has provided about 100,000 sandbags to residents over the past few weeks and continues to replenish the sandbagging sites on a continual basis.

The City has been monitoring and protecting city infrastructure including lift stations, culverts, and bridges.

Vernon Creek levels are elevated as water is being released out of Kalamalka Lake. Residents along Vernon Creek should be taking precautions to protect their property.

Transport Canada advises that anyone operating a power-driven boat in B.C. must adhere to a speed limit of 10 kilometres per hour within 30 metres of shore. Slower speeds are encouraged while water levels remain high.

People are asked to leave any debris along lakeshores on Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake in place until the risk of flood has passed. The debris acts like a cushion to waves in the event of an onshore wind, and reduces sand erosion.

Sandbags and sand for emergency flooding can be picked up at the following locations:

Outside Operations main entrance off of Pleasant Valley Rd
4005 Pleasant Valley Rd
Corner of Okanagan Ave and Okanagan Landing Rd (across from Marshall Fields)
Okanagan Hills Blvd and Bella Vista Rd. intersection (entrance to the Rise community)
8974 Okanagan Landing Road