Interior rivers and streams on the rise as weather pattern shifts

KELOWNA – A high streamflow advisory has been issued by the province for the Southern Interior as the mercury rises.

The River Forecast Centre says a significant change in weather patterns in the B.C. Interior is expected this week thanks to a high pressure system gaining strength.

The advisory includes Mission Creek and small streams and rivers around Princeton, Tulameen, Penticton, Osoyoos, Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops, Salmon Arm and the surrounding areas in those communities.

Seasonally hot temperatures are anticipated, according to the advisory, resulting in daytime high temperatures in the upper 20 Celsius range by tomorrow, May 4.

Showers and rain are expected to follow as the weekend approaches, resulting in accelerated snow melt at mid-elevations. With soil conditions saturated in many areas due to higher than normal precipitation recently, the River Forecast Centre says small creeks and river systems are expected to rise significantly. 

Mid-elevation levels are expected to see the highest levels of snowmelt, while larger river systems including the Similkameen, North Thompson and South Thompson Rivers are not expected to reach levels of concern this week.

High stream flows are anticipated from Thursday, May 4 to Sunday, May 6.

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