VERNON – Stockpiles of sandbags are available for Vernon residents as the city braces for possible flooding on the weekend.

The City of Vernon has emergency operations centre staff on standby given the weather forecast for rainfall and the high potential for high-flow conditions, the municipality says in a media release.

Vernon residents in low-lying areas should prepare for overflow of our creeks and streams and take measures to protect their property, the City says in a media release.

Affected property owners adjacent to creeks, streams and lakes are responsible for having a plan as well as the tools and equipment necessary to protect their properties from possible flood damage.

Stockpiles of sand and sandbags are available at the following locations:

• Vernon City Operations (1900 48 Avenue) outside main gate on Pleasant Valley Road
• Corner of Okanagan Avenue and Okanagan Landing Road

Blocked culverts and water debris that cause an emergent threat of flooding should be reported to the public works department.

Residents can report blocked culverts online, or by emailing operations@vernon.ca or by calling 250-549-6757.

The City also reminds residents to exercise caution, particularly with children, when in the vicinity of fast moving creeks, streams and water.

The City says staff will continue to monitor water levels of creeks and streams as well as the condition of culverts within Vernon.

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