Stock photo of a flooded Riverside in Park in Kamloops.
The City of Kamloops is urging residents to stay away from waterways, including the Thompson River, with the wet and rainy weather we’ve seen over the past few days.
“It’s easy to underestimate the power of rushing water, and we want to make sure residents stay safe this spring,” Kamloops Fire Rescue Deputy Chief, Ryan Cail, said.
“Flooded creeks and streams are unpredictable. Even though the surface water may be smooth, the water is moving very fast. Never attempt to drive or walk in flood water.”
Cail says six inches of fast-moving water is enough to knock over an adult, while two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pickup trucks.
A flood watch is in place for Spius Creek and the Lower Nicola River downstream of Spius Creek with high streamflow advisories in place on other waterways including the Nicola River, the Deadman River, Bonaparte River, as well as Cache Creek and the surrounding tributaries, west of Kamloops.
A severe thunderstorm watch is also in effect for the area with conditions favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that could lead to heavy rain and possibly hail.
Mayor Ken Christian urged caution this week, as he is concerned about the potential for flooding, with city staff bracing for a similar flood season to what was seen in 1999 – a flood which is noted on the markers at Riverside Park, along with 1894, 1948, and 1972.
“When we get this late in the season with out seeing appreciable snow melt at the higher elevation, anything can happen and I’m worried,” he said.
Christian also noted recently completed flood mitigation work at Riverside Park should prevent the need for Hesco Baskets to be installed like in years past.
“We can save that resource for another part of the city that we need to protect,” he said. “Hopefully we can get through this without much damage but I will be on heightened alert as we get into mid-June and beyond.”
The City says sand and sandbags are available at fire stations throughout Kamloops, and anyone who is dealing with localized flooding or water issues should call 250-828-3461.
For more information on flood preparation in Kamloops, go here.
