The City of Vernon has issued an evacuation alert for residents on both sides of Lakeshore Road (from 2548 to 2688 Lakeshore Road) and 6999 Cummins Road.
Weather forecasts for this weekend warn of hot weather Wednesday and Thursday, followed by heavy rains and thunderstorms anticipated from Thursday until Sunday. Along with the increased water flow in local creeks from the melting snowpack, heavy rains and high winds increase the likelihood of flooding along Kalamalka and Okanagan Lakes.
Okanagan Lake levels are currently at 343.25 metres with an expected peak at 343.5 metres.
With lakes at unprecedented levels, the underground water table has come to the surface in some neighbourhoods. Residents should continue to monitor basements and crawlspaces in low lying areas. Local streets may close suddenly due to ground water seeping to the surface.
The city is taking measures to mitigate the risk of flooding by installing temporary flood protection in strategic locations along Lakeshore Road. Cummins Road is currently being built up, which may also provide some protection against flooding. Additionally, another sand and sandbag location is being established at 2605 Lakeshore Road.
Vernon has also reopened its emergency operations centre in anticipation of the flooding
What is an evacuation alert?
During an evacuation alert, people should be prepared to evacuate the area. If not already prepared, use this undetermined period of time to begin an orderly preparation for possible evacuation orders. People may wish to self-evacuate; this is only an alert.
Upon notification of an alert, you should be prepared for the evacuation order by:
- Locating all family members or co-workers and designate a meeting place outside the evacuation area, should an evacuation be called while separated.
- Gathering essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes, photographs, etc. Have these items readily available for quick departure.
- Preparing to move any disabled persons and/or children. Moving pets and livestock to a safe area.
- Arranging to transport your household members or co-workers in the event of an evacuation order.
- Arranging accommodation for your family if possible. In the event of an evacuation, reception centres have been opened.
Sand and sandbags are being replenished twice a day at five other established sites for Vernon residents. The six sandbag locations are:
- 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
- 2605 Lakeshore Road
The City requests that Lakeshore Road be used for local traffic only to allow crews and residents to access properties.