Posted on: May 11, 2017 9:30am
Westbank First Nation flood notice, beach closures, sand locations
The combination of rain and spring snow melt for the next few days will lead to rising water levels, which increases the risk of flooding. The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Center, emergency personnel and volunteers are planning for the worst while hoping for the best, and citizens should do the same.
Flooding is imminent starting late Thursday as a result of rain, rising temperatures and melting snow pack while the ground is already saturated. Residents who experienced flooding last weekend will likely see flooding again and additional properties in low-lying areas near creeks and lakes will likely be affected.
Rising water levels are not an isolated event and this happening across the region. Residents need to be proactive and take steps to protect their properties. Sand and sandbags are available throughout the region but demand is significant and is continually being replenished. Please check www.cordemergency.ca for updates on sand locations throughout the day.
Property Owners with creek or lake frontage and in low lying areas are responsible for taking necessary precautions against flooding. This includes Mobile Home Parks.
The Central Okanagan Emergency Operations Centre advises that all Central Okanagan residents, including WFN residents, be prepared to shelter in place for up to 72 hours.
SAND
Currently (as of May 11, 9:30am), sand and sandbags are available on WFN Lands at the following locations:
- Across from the WFN Works and Utilities yard at the intersection of Cougar and Elk Rd (approximate address 3500 Red Cloud Way)
- 515 Highway 97 South (WFN Government Building) to the right of the main parking lot
Please check www.cordemergency.ca for updates on sand locations throughout the day
BEACH CLOSURES
Westbank First Nation beaches closed until further noticeDue to the recent flooding events, Westbank First Nation is closing all its beaches until further notice.Entering the lake is not recommended due to the debris and sediment in the water, and the uncertain quality of the water. Public Safety is paramount and erosion may have occurred within the area.
It is recommended that private beaches within WFN be closed as well.
Flood UpdatesFor updates on regional Central Okanagan flood response and recovery (including Westbank First Nation), such as evacuation orders, road closures, sandbag and sand pickup locations, and emergency contacts, visit www.cordemergency.ca. Sign up on e-Subscribe to get updates emailed directly to you.
BOIL WATER ADVISORY
The boil water advisory remains in effect for all Westbank First Nation IR#9 (NOT IR#10) residents and businesses due to an elevation in turbidity readings. Consumers are advised to boil water for a minimum of one (1) minute rolling boil prior to consumption. This is required due to the disinfection effectiveness being potentially compromised. The Boil Water advisory will be removed when turbidity readings normalize and adequate disinfection is ensured. More information about boiling water.
The advisory could potentially extend to early June. This is because the turbidity of the lake must first settle, the water lines flushed, and water quality testing completed over a period of several days before the water can be deemed safe to drink.
If you are unsure if your home or business falls within the IR#9 boundary, click on the map links below to view boundary maps.
WFN Land Map (search your address)
Date effective: May 5, 2017, 8:00pm
Residents: Please ensure that an adequate amount of safe drinking water is stored during this time.
Contact: Dawn McGrath, Superintendent of Utilities WFN, 1-250-571-4356
OR Krista Derrickson, Manager of Utilities, 250-575-4210
Commercial/Business Users: Please ensure that adequate safe drinking water is available during this time and supplied to customers at all times.
Contact: Alec Johnson, First Nations Health Authority, 250-212-2170.
SAFETY
Quickly-flowing water and the adjacent riverbanks are potentially unsafe. DO NOT approach washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts, and keep away from creek and river banks.
Anyone noticing a potential problem or a flooding concern is asked to call the Kelowna Fire Department at 250-469-8801.
FLOOD UPDATES
For up-to-date information on the situation including a map and to sign up for e-updates, visit www.cordemergency.ca.
Information will also be provided via: www.twitter.com/CO_Emerg and www.facebook.com/CORDEmergency
For more information, please contact the Information Office at 250-469-8490 or 1-877-569-8490.