Due to an earlier than normal spring snow melt and warmer weather along with some atmospheric river activity in the interior of B.C. the North Thompson Valley is positioning for an early flood watch in the valley corridor along Highway 5 from Blue River through to Kamloops and onward.
First responders throughout the valley are urging the public to be extremely cautious as the waters are rising rapidly and advising that people refrain from advancing too close to riverbanks as the waters begin to peak.
"We're seeing river levels rise quickly right now and that brings a real risk to anyone spending time near the water," Chu Chua Volunteer Fire Department (CCVFD) fire chief Ron Lampreau told Black Press, "Even if it looks calm, currents are strong and banks can be unstable. We're asking everyone to stay well back from the edge, especially with kids and pets, and avoid driving through any flooded roads or low-lying areas. Our Chu Chua Volunteer Fire Department team is ready to respond if needed, but the best way to stay safe is by being cautious and aware of your surroundings."
On May 31 Highway 5, 30 kilometres north of Blue River was closed in both directions without a detour as road crews, Trans Mountain, TELUS and Hydro teams assessed the damage in three spots at Chappell Creek, Allan Creek and the Trans Mountain access road where the high water damaged the roadway and blocked culverts.
Fire chief for Blackpool Fire Rescue and the Little Fort Volunteer Fire Department, Mike Savage also shared a safety message.
"For folks with a high stream flow advisory for the North Thompson and other area rivers we are asking the public to exercise caution or avoid the areas near the rivers," he told Black Press Media. "River waters can rise unexpectedly after heavy rains and debris in the flow can be dangerous. The recent wet weather will help to reduce the fire danger rating but as temperatures will increase along with daily winds things will dry out quickly. As fire danger ratings change, the public is reminded to fully extinguish all campfires and not leave fires unattended."
Hotter and dryer weather is expected ahead along with potential thunder and lightning storms so officials are reminding the public to have their to-go bags ready and be prepared in the event of an emergency or in case of potential evacuations.
"With hotter weather on the way and storms in the forecast, we're entering a period of higher fire risk," CCVFD fire chief Lampreau adds. "Lightning can spark wildfires quickly, especially in dry conditions. We're asking everyone to be extra cautious, report any smoke or fire right away, follow all fire bans and avoid any activities that could spark flames. The CCVFD is monitoring conditions closely, and we're ready to respond, but early reporting and prevention are key to keeping our communities in the valley safe."
The Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) advises all residents to install the Voyent Alert! app on their cell phones. In a statement on the TNRD website it reads that having an emergency alert system in place ensures residents have access to trusted, timely and accurate information when their property is impacted. In order to receive notices, residents must register for the service.
You can register for the Voyent Alert! app via the TNRD website: Voyent Alert! app.
