RDCK press release
In the Kootenays, snow pack &weather-related events, including flooding, is a common occurrence in Spring, with the season from April – July.
In sharing the responsibility, provincial agencies and local volunteers may monitor streams and rivers throughout the freshet / flood season.
Residents are responsible for having a plan, as well as the tools and equipment necessary to protect their homes and properties (sand bagging, for example). In potential life threatening circumstances, the Regional District Central Kootenay may issue an Evacuation Alert or an Evacuation Order to residents living in a flood hazard area.In advance of freshet season EMBC provides sand bags to the Local Authority to protect local infrastructure (bridges, highways, water treatment plants, communications etc.) and to local residents if the need becomes apparent.
IN THE EVENT OF A FLOOD EMERGENCY:
Tune in to local radio stations for more information on sand bag locations and current evacuation alerts or orders.
24/7 Provincial Emergency Reporting Number – Emergency Management BC – Emergency Coordination Centre: 1-800-663-3456
Dirty or muddy water please report immediately!
To report potential flooding or for more information, contact the following RDCK Emergency Coordinators:
Noreen Clayton – Nelson / Kaslo Areas D, E, F 250-354-5343
Terry Warren – Nakusp / Slocan Areas H, I, J, K 250-265-1920
Alanna Garrett – Creston Area A, B, C / Salmo, Area G 250-254-8255
For more information on Flood Preparedness; How to Sand Bag; Creating a Personal Emergency Kit; plus current River Flow Levels from the BC River Forecast Centre, please check out: www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca
For Kootenay Lake Water Levels: www.fortisbc.ca
For local RDCK Flood/ Freshet Information Bulletins (as available) please check out www.rdck.bc.ca