Due to the threat of flooding as a result of ice jams on the Similkameen River, evacuation alerts have been issued for two properties in Electoral Area “G” (Rural Keremeos) and three properties in rural Princeton on Wednesday evening, Dec. 29.
Because of the potential danger to life, health, and property damage, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) issued an evacuation alert for properties in Area G:
3455 HIGHWAY 3
3491 HIGHWAY 3
The evacuation alert issued for Electoral Area “H” (Rural Princeton) is for these properties listed below:
1260 HIGHWAY 3
1264 HIGHWAY 3
1306 HIGHWAY
The potential of rising water levels due to ice jams on the Similkameen River forced the RDOS to closely monitor the situation on Wednesday morning (Dec. 29).
A significant amount of ice has made its way on area rivers, including the Similkameen, causing water levels to potentially rise over minutes or hours.
The RDOS had a helicopter flying above the river this afternoon.
People are advised to keep a safe distance from waterways and river banks. It’s also been said that anyone who notices ice jamming should leave the area and call 911.
To see the map for rural Princeton click here.
To see the map for rural Keremeos click here.