Secure docks, be mindful of wakes with Okanagan Lake at full pool

With Okanagan Lake at full pool, officials are warning that wind, rain or even wakes from boats can intensify shoreline erosion and damage waterfront homes and docks.

To help mitigate the risk, Central Okanagan Emergency Operations is asking waterfront and flood-prone residents to take precautions.

“Property owners are responsible for their own property and should ensure docks are secured and that anchor lines are long enough so they don’t snap if water continues to rise,” Sandra Follack, Central Okanagan Emergency Operations program coordinator said in a press release issued today, June 23. “High winds are still in the forecast and we want residents to be prepared.”

READ MORE: Okanagan Lake reaches full pool with more rain on the way

Warm weather is also in the forecast which will increase the runoff from the high elevation snowpack in the mountains. Emergency operations recommends residents and visitors be extra careful when walking near creeks as banks can be unstable.

Until the shoreline recedes, emergency operations asks the public to leave debris alone after it gets washed up to prevent further erosion. Boaters are asked to be mindful of their speed and wakes.

Sandbags are now available in Peachland, West Kelowna and Joe Rich, along with the previous locations. You can find out where to get them on this map.

The province has emergency guides and resources available through this link. The latest information is made available through CORD's Twitter and Facebook pages.

READ MORE: Okanagan Lake’s 'full pool' target hasn’t changed for decades, but maybe it should

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