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Shuswap Lake expected to peak next week, widespread flooding not anticipated

‘This month is trending to be the warmest and driest May on record’
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While Shuswap Lake continues to rise, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District said Friday, May 26, that it isn’t anticipating any threat to structures around the lake due to widespread flooding. (City of Salmon Arm graphic )

While Shuswap Lake continues to rise, the region’s emergency program isn’t anticipating any threat to structures around the lake due to widespread flooding.

This was according to a media release issued by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) and the Shuswap Emergency Program on Friday, May 26.

“Shuswap Lake has experienced a steep rise in water levels over the past few weeks, due to higher-than-average temperatures increasing the rate of snow melt,” said the CSRD, adding the lake level is currently at 348.403 metres – below the mark “that would trigger the installation of some infrastructure protection measures for flood-prone areas in the Shuswap.”

The BC River Forecast Centre continues to have the Shuswap and areas of the North Okanagan at flood watch status, with potential minor flooding issues due to high river and lake levels, said the CSRD. However, while water levels may increase slightly, “it is expected that the lake level may peak next week and begin to slowly decline.”

“The Shuswap Emergency Program is also not anticipating any significant issues with river systems unless an unforeseen rainstorm brings heavy precipitation into the area,” said the release. “Currently the forecast is calling for warmer and drier conditions.

“This month is trending to be the warmest and driest May on record.”

The CSRD and emergency program warn rivers, creeks and streams continue to flow at a high rate, and it is important to be safe near fast-running water or flooded areas.

“Please remember to stay well back from creek banks. Water flow rates in some areas remain intense enough to easily overwhelm even strong swimmers. Ensure children and pets are always supervised,” reads the media release.

“Boat operators are reminded that spring run-off increases the level of debris in local lakes. Slow down and use extreme caution when boating to avoid collisions with logs or branches. During high water conditions, it is common courtesy to slow down and keep boat wakes low when near the shoreline.”

Read more: Energy efficient building code changes net frustration at Columbia Shuswap Regional District

Read more: Low lake level prompts public warnings for Shuswap boat launches



lachlan@saobserver.net
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