Emergency Information

Central Okanagan Spring Runoff Update - Flood Watch Ended

Wed, 15 May 2013 02:25:00 GMT

The Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program advises a Flood Watch issued Sunday by the BC River Forecast Centre for the Mission Creek watershed, ended earlier today.

Cooler temperatures and moderate rainfall over the past few days have resulted in lower flows and levels in Mission Creek.

Central Okanagan Spring Runoff Update - Flood Watch for Mission Creek

Sun, 12 May 2013 23:12:00 GMT

With a change in the weather expected to bring rain, the BC River Forecast Centre has upgraded an earlier streamflow advisory to a Flood Watch for the Mission Creek watershed.

A Flood Watch means that river levels are rising and will approach or may exceed bankfull. Flooding of areas adjacent to affected rivers may occur. The Provincial agency says Mission Creek is sensitive to any additional water input that may happen as a result of forecast rain on Monday and Tuesday, with heavier rain amounts expected over higher terrain. If rainfall amounts are lower than forecast, flooding may not occur.

Advisory for Increased Creek Flows and Levels

Wed, 08 May 2013 21:16:00 GMT

The BC River Forecast Centre has issued a High Streamflow Advisory affecting the Mission Creek and other small watersheds in the Okanagan.

The higher elevation snowpack has been melting rapidly since the start of this current warm spell late last week and with Environment Canada forecasting increased temperatures through the end of the week, Central Okanagan creeks are expected to keep rising, reaching their highest level late Friday or Saturday.

Warm Temperatures Expected to Boost Flows

Fri, 03 May 2013 18:33:00 GMT

With warmer daytime temperatures in the forecast, it’s expected more snow at the higher elevations will melt resulting in faster flows and rising levels of Central Okanagan creeks and streams.

While there are currently no watches or advisories in effect, residents and property owners in low lying and flood prone areas are encouraged to take the steps they need to prepare and protect their properties as conditions can change rapidly during the spring runoff.

Property Owners Prepare for Spring Runoff Water Watch

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 19:52:00 GMT

Central Okanagan waterfront property owners and those living near creeks, streams and low lying areas should consider steps to protect their property and reduce the risk of flooding.

Seasonal temperatures and forecast showers are increasing flows and levels of water bodies throughout the Central Okanagan. A sudden prolonged warm spell combined with heavy rains could increase the risk of above average creek levels and potential flooding.

Emergency Operation Centre Deactivated

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 15:20:00 GMT

With the recscinding of the Evacuation Alerts for the Trepanier Forest Fire in September, the Central Okanagan Emergency Opeartion Centre (EOC) is no longer activated and operating.

In the event of an emergency and EOC activation, current informaton will be posted at cordemergency.ca.

We encourage you to subscribe in order to receive the latest updates by email when the Emergency Operation Centre is operating during any emergency in the Central Okanagan.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 19

Sun, 16 Sep 2012 19:00:00 GMT

The Regional District of Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre advises all Alerts pertaining to the Trepanier wildfire have been cancelled. In addition, all Local States of Emergency have been rescinded and the Emergency Operations Centre is now closed.

The BC Wildfire Management Branch says the fire, which began last Sunday afternoon near Trepanier Road and the Highway 97-C underpass, is now completely contained. Residents may continue to see smoke rising from within the fire area as fire crews continue the mop up effort to fully extinguish any remaining hot spots over the next week.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 18

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 17:52:00 GMT

The Regional District of Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre advises all Alerts pertaining to the Trepanier wildfire remain in effect until further notice. In addition, all Local States of Emergency are still in effect.

A detailed map showing the Alert areas is available at www.cordemergency.ca.

Residents within the areas still on Alert should be prepared to leave their homes on short notice in the event conditions change.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 17

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 23:11:00 GMT

The Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre reminds that with the lifting of the final Evacuation Order at 5:00 pm this afternoon, the residents returning to their home will be on Evacuation Alert and should be prepared to leave their homes with little or short notice.

In addition, as active fire suppression work continues, please stay out of the way of emergency vehicles and crews.

Tonight there will be night patrols involving RCMP as well as structural fire crews and BC Wildfire Management fire fighters.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 16

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 21:31:00 GMT

Effective at 5:00 pm this afternoon, the Evacuation Order will be rescinded for the entire area covering the District of Peachland and Central Okanagan West Electoral Area of the Regional District.

The approximately 258 residents will be allowed back into their homes after 5:00 pm and are reminded that they will be on Evacuation Alert and they should be prepared to leave their homes again with little notice.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 15

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 16:57:00 GMT

An aerial assessment this morning of the Trepanier forest fire Evacuation Area has revealed it is not safe enough for any more people to return to their homes.

It’s anticipated that the earliest any change might be made to the Evacuation Order for residents within the District of Peachland is later this afternoon

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 14

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 13:47:00 GMT

Once again, overnight conditions supported the efforts of fire fighters patrolling areas affected by the Trepanier forest fire.

A few spot fires were reported to fire patrols by RCMP, which has also been conducting patrols throughout the area still under evacuation order and staffing security checkpoints.

BC Wildfire Management says the fire hasn’t grown and remains at an estimated 200-hectares and is now 85 per cent contained.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 13

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 22:18:00 GMT

The Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre advises that there will be no further anticipated changes in the Evacuation Order and Alert areas until mid-morning tomorrow at the earliest.

This is based on the need to ensure public safety and that all areas are safe before allowing residents to re-enter.

Local government staff has been and are continuing an extensive effort to identify and where possible remove hazards that could threaten the safety of residents. Among these hazards are dangerous trees, falling limbs and ground threats (unexpected holes) as well as ensuring infrastructure (electricity) is intact. There have also been small isolated active fires identified in the Evacuation area.

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 12

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 17:04:00 GMT

A portion of the Evacuation Order for the Trepanier Forest Fire has been reclassified to an Evacuation Alert for the following properties: Cousins Place (5078, 5089, 5091, 5093) Cousins Road (5006, 5010, 5019, 5030, 5039, 5049, 5050, 5095, 5102, 5103, 5104, 5105, 5107, 5109, 5111, 5113, 5115, 5120) Dryden Road (3860, 3870, 3880, 3890, 3896, 3900, 3902, 3904, 3905, 3906, 3908, 3919, 3926, 3927, 3930, 3935, 3943, 3946, 3950, 3951, 3959, 3967, 3975, 3981, 3985, 3986, 4000, 4020) MacKinnon Road (4713, 4855, 5070) Morrison Crescent (5175, 5181) Smith Way (4020, 4024, 4026, 4028, 4029, 4030, 4032, 4033, 4034, 4036, 4038, 4039, 4040, 4041, 4043, 4045, 4047) Trepanier Heights (3909, 3910, 3912, 3915, 3919, 3920, 3923, 3928, 3929, 3931, 3935, 3936, ...

Trepanier Forest Fire - News Release 11

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Cooler temperatures and low wind overnight have provided ideal conditions for fire fighters monitoring the still active Trepanier forest fire.

Fire crews easily snuffed out a few minor flare ups found during overnight patrols and report a quiet night on the fire front,

The Unified Command involving BC Wildfire Management and local structural fire departments will be determining today’s plan of action in the continuing effort to contain the blaze which remains at a size of 200-hectares and is 75% contained.

Trepanier Forest Fire Update - News Release Correction No. 10

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 01:09:00 GMT

The Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre is correcting some information that was previously released regarding the Evacuation Order The following properties remain on Evacuation Order and are not allowed to return to their homes: 5091 Cousins Place One property north of Highway 97 next to 4713 MacKinnon Road 4713, 4850, 5126 MacKinnon Road The Emergency Operation Centre apologizes for this misinformation and any misunderstanding caused. Approximately 1,134 Peachland residents evacuated as a result of the Trepanier Forest Fire are now able to return home tonight. Thanks to favourable weather conditions and excellent firefighting efforts, a portion of the area under Evacuation Order has been reclassified to an Evacuation Alert area. Although residents on the following roads are free to ...

Trepanier Forest Fire Update - News Release No. 9

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:20:00 GMT

Approximately 1,134 Peachland residents evacuated as a result of the Trepanier Forest Fire will be able to return home tonight. Thanks to favourable weather conditions and excellent firefighting efforts, a portion of the area under Evacuation Order has been reclassified to an Evacuation Alert area. Although residents on the following roads are free to return to their homes, they are reminded that they are on Evacuation Alert and must still be prepared to leave with little notice: Peachland Elementary School Clements Crescent, including the commercial area Chidley Road 5091 Cousins Place 1 property north of Highway 97 next to 4713 MacKinnon Road 4713, 4850, 5126 MacKinnon Road 1st Avenue 2nd Avenue 3rd Avenue 4th Avenue 6th Avenue 7th Avenue ...

Trepanier Forest Fire Update - News Release No. 8

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 19:24:00 GMT

The Emergency Operations Centre has confirmed that three homes in the District of Peachland and one abandoned home in the Central Okanagan West Electoral Area have been lost as a result of the Trepanier Forest Fire. Numerous outbuildings have also been impacted. Emergency personnel are continuing to formulate a detailed damage assessment and are in the process of notifying affected property owners. Victim Witness Services are working with Emergency Support Services to offer assistance to the families affected. A Unified Command has been established with Peachland Fire Chief Grant Topham and representatives of the BC Wildfire Management Branch and RCMP. Peachland Fire Department is receiving support from BC Forestry and neighbouring fire departments including West Kelowna, Kelowna, Lake Country, Summerland, ...

Trepanier Forest Fire Update No. 7

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 14:17:00 GMT

A Media Conference has been arranged at the Emergency Operations Centre to provide an update on the Trepanier Forest Fire. When: September 10, 2012 11:00 a.m. Where: Station 1 Firehall 2255 Enterprise Way Personnel from the Emergency Operations Centre, Peachland Fire Department, BC Wildfire Management Branch and RCMP will provide an update on the status of the forest fire. Emergency Personnel are conducting a detailed damage assessment and are working to notify affected property owners. More information on properties impacted is expected to be released later this morning. RCMP and Central Okanagan Search and Rescue volunteers continue to staff checkpoints to ensure security within the Evacuation Area. Until the Evacuation Order is rescinded, no one will be allowed within ...

Trepanier Forest Fire Update - News Release No. 6

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 13:30:00 GMT

The Trepanier Forest Fire has been estimated at 200-hectares in size. BC Wildfire Management crews and structural fire fighters from across the Central Okanagan have been monitoring the fire overnight. They have been helped by cooler overnight temperatures, showers and low winds, although winds have been increasing over the past few hours. A unified plan of attack for the day will be confirmed as daylight approaches to try and get containment on this fire. RCMP and Central Okanagan Search and Rescue volunteers continue to staff checkpoints to ensure security within the Evacuation Area. Until the Evacuation Order is rescinded, no one will be allowed within the area. The fire forced approximately 1,550 people from their homes and an estimated ...

Trepanier Forest Fire Update - News Release No. 5

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 06:10:00 GMT

The Trepanier Forest Fire has been estimated at 170-hectares in size. It’s forced approximately 1,550 people from their homes and an estimated 432 people in the downtown and waterfront areas of Peachland remain on Evacuation Alert and should be prepared to leave their homes on little or short notice in the event an expanded Evacuation is necessary. The latest map showing the Evacuation area and Evacuation Alert area is available at www.cordemergency.ca. During the overnight hours, BC Wildfire Management Branch crews along with structural fire fighters from across the Central Okanagan (Peachland, West Kelowna, Kelowna, Lake Country, North Westside, Joe Rich, Ellison) are monitoring the fire and protecting in the event of any spot fire activity. RCMP ...

Hwy 97 reopens - News Release No. 4

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:53:00 GMT

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure advises that Highway 97 is once again open to two way traffic from Princeton Avenue to Glenrosa Road. Highway 97-C the Okanagan Connector is also open to traffic. Check DriveBC.ca for the latest information and any changes in status. There has been overwhelming support from people offering large horse hauling trailers. The Canadian Disaster Animal Response Team (CDART) says at this time, horse trailers are not required in the Trepanier area. Anyone willing to help can register with CDART at either Emergency Support Services reception centre: in West Kelowna at the Westbank Lions Community Centre, 2466 Main Street in West Kelowna or the Summerland Arena and Curling Club, 8820 Jubilee Road East. It’s ...

Evacuation Order Expanded - News Release No. 3

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 03:25:00 GMT

Due to continued wildfire activity from the Trepanier Forest Fire, the Evacuation Order has been expanded to include another estimated 600 residents (375 properties) in the Ponderosa area of Peachland. This area was previously on Alert. This expanded Evacuation includes the properties on the following roads: 1st Avenue 2nd Avenue 3rd Avenue 4th Avenue 6th Avenue 7th Avenue Clements Crescent Pincushion Place Ponderosa Drive Ponderosa Place Residents in this area are asked to report to the Emergency Support Services Reception Centre in the Summerland Arena and Curling Club, 8820 Jubilee Road East. This area includes Peachland Elementary School, which will be closed until further notice. School District No. 23 will provide further details for parents of students at Peachland Elementary. ...

Evacuation Order & Alert Expanded - News Release 2

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 01:51:00 GMT

An Evacuation Order for the Trepanier Forest Fire has been expanded to include the following properties: Chidley Road 5091 Cousins Place One property north of Highway 97 next to 4713 MacKinnon Road 5350 -5358 Huston Road 4713, 4850, 5126 MacKinnon Road 3642 Walker Road Affected residents will be directed to the appropriate Emergency Support Services Reception Centre. A map showing the Evacuation area is available at www.cordemergency.ca. An Evacuation Alert is in effect for properties affected by a forest fire south west of the Okanagan Connector. The streets within the Evacuation Alert area include: 1st Avenue 2nd Avenue 3rd Avenue 4th Avenue 6th Avenue 7th Avenue Clements Crescent Pincushion Place Ponderosa Drive Ponderosa Place An Evacuation Alert means ...

Trepanier Fire - News Release 1

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:36:00 GMT

Regional District of Central Okanagan, B.C. – An Evacuation Order is in place for properties affected by a forest fire south west of the Okanagan Connector including Trepanier Road from the Connector including Star Place all within the Central Okanagan West Electoral Area and an area within the District of Peachland

Evacuation Alert Rescinded

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 18:45:00 GMT

Regional District of Central Okanagan, B.C. – The Evacuation Alert for properties in Wilsons Landing has been rescinded. The BC Wildfire Management Branch has determined the immediate threat has passed for the properties on evacuation alert since July 30. If the situation changes, further information will be issued or visit the RDCO Emergency website at www.cordemergency.ca .

Wilsons Landing Evacuation Alert

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 21:36:00 GMT

Regional District of Central Okanagan, B.C. –

The Evacuation Alert issued earlier this morning for approximately 40-50 properties in the Wilsons Landing area remains in effect due to the potential danger from the wildfire in the area, with a handful of additional properties added on Westside Road.

Updated information has been provided regarding the status of Westside Road. At the request of the BC Wildfire Management Branch, the Ministry of Transportation has closed Westside Road from Bear Main Forest Service Road (south end of closure) through to Jenny Creek Subdivision at Browse Road (north end of closure). All traffic is being stopped at Bear Main Forest Service Road for northbound traffic, and all residents in the affected area are being advised to travel north through Vernon along Westside Road. For updated information on the status of the road please monitor the www.drivebc.ca website or the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

News Release 2 - Wilsons Landing Evacuation Alert

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 14:45:00 GMT

The Evacuation Alert issued earlier this morning for approximately 40-50 properties in the Wilsons Landing area remains in effect due to the potential danger from the wildfire in the area.

Updated information has been provided regarding the status of Westside Road.

News Release 1 - Wilsons Landing Evacuation Alert

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 12:50:00 GMT

The Regional District of Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre has issued an Evacuation Alert for some residents of the Wilsons Landing area of the potential danger due to the Wilsons Landing forest fire.

Be Ready to 'Grab and Go'

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 20:40:00 GMT

Do you know where your important family documents are? How about photos and irreplaceable negatives? What about medicines, prescriptions and glasses needed in the event you have to quickly leave your home during an emergency?

The Central Okanagan Emergency Program and Emergency Support Services organization is encouraging all residents to restock and update their family ‘Grab and Go’ kits or to take the time now to gather items and prepare their first kit.

Streamflow Advisory Ends - Creekside Safety Urged

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 19:23:00 GMT

The BC River Forecast Centre has ended a High Streamflow Advisory for Mission Creek.

While the creek flow and level has dropped over the past 24 hours, the Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program continues to urge residents to stay safely back from the edge of local creeks and streams. Creek banks could be slippery due to the recent high water levels and in some places, may have sustained erosion and undercutting.

High Streamflow Advisory and Mission Creek Monitoring

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 18:57:00 GMT

With more localized thundershower activity today in the Central Okanagan and possible heavy rains over the Mission Creek watershed, the BC River Forecast Centre has added a High Streamflow Advisory for Mission Creek.

This could result once again in minor flooding in low lying areas and rapid rises in creek levels and flows.

Local crews continue to monitor the status of Mission Creek and other area creeks in light of the isolated thundershowers

Joe Rich Area Property and Mission Creek Monitored

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 22:20:00 GMT

The Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program and Joe Rich Fire Rescue are continuing to monitor the status of a property adjacent to Mission Creek in the Joe Rich area.

This afternoon, a Professional Engineer and program officials attended the private property, in the 11,200 block of Highway 33 near the Three Forks Bridge. While Mission Creek is flowing around the principle residence, the Engineer has determined that at the present time, there are no required actions that could be safely completed due to the high water.

Rains Raise Creek Levels

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 18:25:00 GMT

Mission Creek once again approached record levels as a result of more than 40 millimetres of rain falling in the watershed on Saturday. Early today there was a rapid rise in the creek level and flow with the heavy rainfall yesterday. While it’s now showing a slight decrease, local emergency officials urge caution as additional rainfall could see another increase.

Diaster Financial Assistance Approved

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 18:00:00 GMT

There some good news for those property owners that might have been affected by the recent flooding in Kelowna.

Emergency Management BC has advised the Regional District of Central Okanagan Emergency Program that Disaster Financial Assistance has been approved related to any Overland Flooding damage caused by the rain induced flooding June 9th.

Joe Rich area Evacuation Alert Rescinded

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 21:15:00 GMT

The Evacuation Alert affecting 14 properties in the Mission Creek area of Joe Rich has been rescinded.

The alert was issued early Sunday morning as heavy rains caused a rapid rise in both the flow and level of Mission Creek.

Local State of Emergency Cancelled - Evacuation Alert Continues

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 02:50:00 GMT

A Local State of Emergency has been rescinded now that work to protect Mission Creek has successfully and safely been completed.

The Regional Emergency Program and Joe Rich Fire Rescue continue to monitor weather and creek conditions and will as warranted, evaluate the status of the Evacuation Alert, which remains in effect.

The Evacuation Alert affects 14 properties in the eastern portion of Joe Rich as the potential remains for flooding.

Local State of Emergency and Evacuation Alert Continue

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 19:35:00 GMT

A Local State of Emergency continues for a property in the 11200 block of Highway 33 in order to protect Mission Creek from the environmental hazards posed by structures on the property in the Joe Rich area.

The Local State of Emergency provides special powers to a Local Government in order to protect public health and safety, the environment and public infrastructure.

Local State of Emergency Declared to protect Mission Creek

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 01:55:00 GMT

The Regional District of Central Okanagan declared a Local State of Emergency in order to protect the environment of Mission Creek in the Joe Rich area of the Central Okanagan East Electoral Area.

The declaration allows the Regional District to access a property in the 11200 Block of Highway 33, near Mission Creek and the Three Forks Bridge crossing the creek, in order to conduct a professional engineering assessment and take appropriate actions related to outbuildings and structures on the property. With high creek flows and levels of the creek there is an imminent risk to public health and safety and the environment of the creek.

Joe Rich Evacuation Alert Continues

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 19:45:00 GMT

An Evacuation Alert remains in effect for 14 properties* in the eastern portion of Joe Rich near Mission Creek as the potential remains for possible flooding.

Weather and creek conditions are being monitored by Joe Rich Fire Rescue and the Regional Emergency Program. The status of the alert will be evaluated over the next few days and will be affected by any changes in both the creek levels and weather.

Joe Rich Evacuation Alert

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 07:40:00 GMT

An Evacuation Alert has been issued by the Regional District of Central Okanagan for 14 properties in the eastern portion of Joe Rich adjacent to Mission Creek due to the potential for flooding as a result of increased water flows and levels of Mission Creek.

Central Okanagan High Streamflow Advisory

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 23:00:00 GMT

With more rain in the forecast through the weekend for the Central Okanagan and area lakes at extremely high levels, waterfront property owners and those in low lying areas near creeks and streams are encouraged to take steps needed to protect their property.

With the wet weather and continued high elevation snow-melt, the BC River Forecast Centre has issued a High Streamflow Advisory for the Okanagan, including Mission Creek. The advisory means river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, but that no major flooding is expected. However, minor flooding is possible in low-lying areas.

Truswell evacuation alert rescinded

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 20:21:00 GMT

Kelowna, B.C. – The local state of emergency and evacuation alert for people living at 549 Truswell Rd. have been rescinded.
Residents of 30 rental units at the Walnut Grove property were placed on 20-minute evacuation alert on the evening on June 14. Part of a retaining wall on the property along Mission Creek was washed away and the rest of the wall was in jeopardy of falling into the creek.
City crews worked overnight to bring in 40 loads of large rip-rap rock to stabilize the property against the fast-flowing high water in Mission Creek.
Residents are asked to continue to exercise caution near any area creeks and streams. Please keep children and pets safely ...

Work continues at Truswell property

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 15:25:00 GMT

Kelowna, B.C. – A local state of emergency remains in place this morning for the Walnut Grove property on Truswell Road.
City crews worked through the night to deliver 30 loads of rock to stabilize a failing retaining wall along Mission Creek.
Updates will be posted when new information is available.

Truswell property owners on evacuation alert

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 05:38:00 GMT

Kelowna, B.C. – A failing retaining wall at the Walnut Grove property at 549 Truswell Rd. has prompted a local state of emergency.
Residents at the 30-unit rental property have been placed on evacuation alert.
Part of a retaining wall abutting Mission Creek at the back of the Walnut Grove property has fallen into the creek and the rest of the wall lining the creek is in jeopardy of falling.
After monitoring Mission Creek water flow at the property throughout the day and an inspection Thursday evening by a hydrological engineer, emergency officials decided to put the residents on evacuation alert.
City crews are preparing to remove some soil from the area and bring in ...

Flooding Update

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 22:47:00 GMT

The Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program has been active on several fronts over the weekend as last week’s rainfall has caused localized flooding problems.

Watch for Rising Water Levels in the Central Okanagan

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 17:30:00 GMT

Significant rainfall forecast for the Central Okanagan this week could result in rising water levels in area creeks and streams.

Overnight tonight and tomorrow, up to 30 millimeters of rain is possible for our area and as a result, the Central Okanagan Regional Emergency Program is advising those property owners living in low-lying areas near creeks to remain alert and take steps to protect their properties in case water levels rise quickly.

High Streamflow Advisory Ended - Boaters Watch for Debris

Fri, 18 May 2012 20:50:00 GMT

The BC River Forecast Centre says a High Streamflow Advisory has ended for the Okanagan.

While the threat of flooding has moderated with more seasonal temperatures in the forecast, the Central Okanagan Emergency program and local agencies continue monitoring the flow and levels of area creeks and water courses.

Fire, smoke prevention for warm weather

Thu, 17 May 2012 16:01:00 GMT

As summer approaches and residents prepare their patios and yards for warmer weather, the City reminds residents to be aware of local smoke control and fire prevention bylaws.

The City of Kelowna Fire Prevention Regulation Bylaw No. 6110 regulates open burning and wood burning appliances. Different restrictions are in place for other municipalities in the Central Okanagan. Residents in other areas should speak with their Fire Department to check local restrictions and see if campfires or wood burning appliances are allowed, and if permits are required.

Warm Temperatures expected to boost Spring Runoff

Fri, 11 May 2012 20:40:00 GMT

It’s expected that with warmer daytime temperatures in the forecast, more snow in the higher elevations will melt resulting in faster flows and rising levels of Central Okanagan creeks and streams. The BC River Forecast Centre has a High Streamflow Advisory in place for the Okanagan.

Emergency Preparedness Begins at Home

Thu, 03 May 2012 22:25:00 GMT

Central Okanagan residents have experienced and witnessed first-hand the impact on their families, neighbourhoods and communities of threatening large scale emergencies.

As the Regional Emergency Program staff is conducting their annual training sessions in advance of Emergency Preparedness Week May 6^th through 12^th, they’re encouraging Central Okanagan families to do the same: Know the Risks, Make a Plan and Get a Kit.

Spring Runoff Watch Precautions

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 22:20:00 GMT

Central Okanagan waterfront property owners and those living near creeks, streams and low lying areas should consider making annual flood protection preparations. They’re responsible for taking the necessary precautions against the risk of flooding.

Local governments and the Provincial Government are monitoring water levels and weather conditions connected to the annual spring runoff and if needed will issue further notices.

Emergency Operation Centre Deactivated

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:45:00 GMT

With the rescinding of the Local State of Emergency by the District of West Kelowna on Thursday, April 26th for the McDougall Creek flooding, the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) is no longer activated and operating. However monitoring of area creeks and water courses will continue during the spring freshet and runoff season.

Local State of Emergency Lifted - Area Being Kept on Close Watch

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 19:25:00 GMT

After assessing McDougall Creek near Hitchner Road, which overflowed its banks last night, the District of West Kelowna is lifting the Local State of Emergency. The area is still at risk due to continuing rainy conditions and spring thaw activity, but emergency and District Operations personnel will keep a close watch in the coming hours. As there is no imminent threat to life and safety, the State of Emergency has been lifted.

Local State of Emergency Still in Place - Flooding Near Hitchner Road Being Assessed

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:00:00 GMT

An assessment of flooded properties along Hitchner Road due to overflowing McDougall Creek is being conducted by West Kelowna Fire Rescue District of West Kelowna Operations staff this morning. Further updates are expected after 11 a.m. The Local State of Emergency is still in effect at this time and six properties are under evacuation order.

Local State of Emergency Being Called - Flooding Impacting Hitchner Road

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 04:16:00 GMT

The District of West Kelowna is declaring a local State of Emergency and evacuating six properties along Hitchner Road due to flooding of McDougall Creek.

Emergency Operation Centre Deactivated

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 23:00:00 GMT

With the rescinding of the remaining Evacuation Alerts at 4:00 pm, September 7th for the Bear Creek Fire, the Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) is no longer activated and operating.

In the event of an emergency and EOC activation, current information will be posted on this website, cordemergency.ca.

We encourage you to subscribe in order to receive the latest email updates when the Emergency Operation Centre is operating during any emergency in the Central Okanagan.

Bear Creek Fire - News Release No. 5

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 21:30:00 GMT

The Regional District of Central Okanagan Emergency Operation Centre advises effective 4:00 pm September 7th, the cancellation of all Alerts pertaining to the Bear Creek wildfire. As well, the Local State of Emergency has been rescinded and the Emergency Operation Centre is now closed.

Bear Creek Fire - News Release No. 4

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:35:00 GMT

With great progress made on fighting the Bear Creek wildfire and supporting weather conditions, on a recommendation from the BC Wildfire Management Branch, effective at 6:00 pm this evening, the Emergency Operation Centre is rescinding the Evacuation Order affecting approximately 550 residents of Traders Cove and Bear Creek Main Forest Service Road and about 100 visitors to Bear Creek Provincial Park.

Bear Creek Fire - News Release No. 3

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:00:00 GMT

The BC Wildfire Management Branch and structural fire crews from West Kelowna and Wilsons Landing continue to battle a fire estimated at approximately 39-hectares in size burning above Westside Road.

Bear Creek Fire - News Release No. 2

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 11:30:00 GMT

Residents living on Westside Road south of Bear Creek Provincial Park and north of Sailview Bay (901 Westside Road) are on evacuation alert effective immediately. All residents should be prepared to evacuate on very short notice.

Bear Creek Fire - News Release No. 1

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:05:00 GMT

A forest fire in the Bear Creek Provincial Park area, adjacent to Westside Road, residents and visitors in Traders Cove, Bear Creek Service Road and Bear Creek Provincial Park have been evacuated and a state of emergency has been declared.

Dike construction update, water warnings

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:37:00 GMT

As work continues today reinforcing the dike along a section of Mission Creek, emergency officials are also concerned for boaters on Okanagan Lake.

Local emergency declared for flood preparation

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 15:32:00 GMT

A state of local emergency was declared this morning by Kelowna Mayor Sharon Shepherd for two properties along Mission Creek.