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UPDATE: Penticton responds to rising lake levels

Penticton has triggered flooding plans for areas along Okanagan Lake
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Update: May 20, 4 p.m.

Penticton residents can pick up and fill sandbags at Fire Hall #2, located at 285 Dawson St.

Local firefighters and the Penticton Flames junior lacrosse team, along with their coach, Kevin Thompson, have been filling sandbags since early Saturday morning. So far, 3000 sandbags have been filled.

“We would like to extend our thanks to Kevin and his team, as well as our committed group of firefighters for spending their day dedicated to community safety,” said Peter Weeber, Penticton’s chief administrative officer.

Lake levels in the Okanagan have triggered an official flood mitigation plan. Low-lying areas have been affected in Penticton including a small area near Okanagan Lake Park, Rotary Park and the Lakeside Resort and land surrounding the SS Sicamous.

This hasn’t affected LocoLanding or any other nearby family businesses or restaurants. City Hall issued a statement advising residents to simply avoid those few low-lying areas.

“The city and the Regional District are working together to prepare for high water levels in specific areas of the city, but for now there has been minimal impact on residential homes and city infrastructure,” said Weeber.

Continue to check in at www.penticton.ca for more information.


Water levels in Okanagan Lake climbed to a level Friday that the City of Penticton has triggered flood mitigation plans.

City officials are working with Emergency Management B.C. and the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen on methods to mitigate the risk in low-lying areas that may be affected by the rising water levels.

Areas affected include lands near the SS Sicamous, parts of the Okanagan Lake Walkway, part of Rotary Park, a small area in front of the Lakeside Hotel, part of Okanagan Lake Park, the Marina area and three private residences. The private residences have been advised of the rising water situation. The city is working with the staff of the SS Sicamous to address the risks.

“We are working collaboratively with the Regional District and the province to minimize the risk as much as possible,” said Peter Weeber, chief administrative officer. “We ask people to avoid these areas and stay away from fast moving water while the watch is in effect. We will continue to update you as we know more, and ask you check in at www.penticton.ca for more information.”

Related: Keeping a watch on water levels