EOC Update: sandbag locations in Electoral Areas G and H

News Article
Published: January 11, 2022

Tuesday, January 11, 2022  3:15 pm

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre (RDOS EOC) is activated and continues to monitor and support potential ice jam events. The EOC is reminding residents and visitors to be aware of potential flooding and other hazards on or near area waterways, including the Similkameen River.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has indicated warmer temperatures will be present over the next several days, with the possibility of precipitation. If you live near a waterway, please take steps to protect yourself and your property. The EOC will continue to monitor this event and provide further information as required. Sand and sandbags are available for residents to protect their property from potential flooding. Additional sandbag locations will be in place on Wednesday, January 12, 2022.

  • 3491 Highway 3 in Electoral Area G (Rural Keremeos)
  • 13 km east of Princeton in Area H (Rural Princeton)

Visit the interactive map on the EOC website for sandbag locations: https://emergency.rdos.bc.ca/

Evacuation Alerts issued by the EOC on Wednesday, December 29, 2022, remain in place.

If you live near the Similkameen River, be prepared to leave on short notice even if your property is not under Evacuation Alert.

Important reminders:

  • If you notice water pooling on your property, including groundwater, contact the EOC and you will get a response during normal business hours ( non urgent)
  • If you notice ice jamming and you or your property may be threatened, leave the area if it is safe to do so and call 9-1-1
  • Warmer temperatures can cause ice jams to shift
  • Keep a safe distance from waterways, ice jams, and river banks
  • Snowfall may be covering potential hazards near waterways and river banks
  • Water levels can fluctuate quickly and erosion can cause river banks to become unstable
  • Report any blockages or rising ice levels near the top of a river bank
  • Take steps to clear drains to prevent backup or flooding

Tips to prepare for an ice jam:

  • Follow information on weather advisories from the River Forecast Centre
  • Have a plan and educate others, including neighbours
  • Have access to a sump pump
  • Know the risks associated with living in a floodplain
  • Have an emergency kit and grab-and-go bag available and easily accessible
  • Sand and sandbags may be issued by the RDOS EOC to residents whose homes are under imminent threat of ice jam flooding
  • Visit the RDOS EOC website for tips and information: https://emergency.rdos.bc.ca/

During an ice jam, water levels can rise over minutes or hours. Ice jams can also release suddenly, sending fast-flowing water and ice downstream. An ice jam release can cause water levels to decrease quickly near the ice jam but rise downstream.

Voyent Alert! notifications

Click here to register for routine and emergency notifications via email, text, or telephone.

You can also find a link to Voyent Alert! on the RDOS website: www.rdos.bc.ca

For further information, please call the EOC Monday to Friday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm at 250-490-4225. If you would like to leave a message, the EOC phone is being monitored and your call will be returned as soon as possible. In case of an emergency, please call 9-1-1.

Issued by EOC Director

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