The Province of BC is encouraging British Columbians to prepare for possible spring flooding. With warming temperatures increasing the likelihood of rising water levels, British Columbians are encouraged to prepare for potential spring floods, while the Province, local governments and First Nations work together to keep people and communities safe.
High-elevation snowpacks have not yet developed to the point that increased heat will cause significant runoff. At this time, forecasters are not anticipating a flood hazard over this current warming period for rivers lying in higher elevations, including larger rivers such as the Fraser River.
Mid-elevation areas may experience an increased flood hazard this weekend in low-lying areas near river and streams. This includes the Chilcotins, areas around Prince George, Quesnel, Williams Lake, Cache Creek, and throughout the central Interior and smaller watersheds in the Okanagan and Boundary. These areas include the territories of the Tŝilhqot’in, Lheidli-T'enneh, Nazko, Xatśūll, Bonaparte, Skeetchestn, Lhoosk’uz Dené and Williams Lake (T'exelc) First Nations. People should steer clear of riverbanks and shorelines during periods of high flow.
Full news release available here.