Heavy rain and melting snow are to blame for declaring a local state of emergency in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia.
The state was declared on Tuesday afternoon in the Kelowna area in response to isolated floods on three rivers, officials said.
The affected areas are along Mission Creek, Scotty Creek and part of Mill Creek.
The public is required to avoid the affected areas in order to allow space emergency services to do their job, and to call 911 only in case of an emergency, and not to report floods or related problems.
These concerns can be reported to the caller’s city or area.
Earlier in the day, residents along the first creek were told to be ready to leave as the body of water swells due to recent rainfall.
People living near Mission Creek were trying to fill sandbags to protect their homes while monitoring water levels.
The river overflowed its banks, prompting the district to activate its emergency operations center. He also tells residents to have an evacuation plan for themselves and their pets in case they have to leave.
Kelowna saw more rain than expected in the 24-hour period, which led to increased melting snow and rising water.
Nearly two dozen vehicles have been moved from the airport car park due to flooding.
Some sections of roads are closed in the affected area, including the Radant, Bulman, KLO and Casorso roads.
Updates are provided through Central Okanagan emergency operations.
Staff members are working with other agencies to manage the situation, and city teams have been sent to inspect bridges and monitor water levels.
Sand and sandbags can be taken from the Gordon and Lequim roads for those interested in protecting their property.
In the event of a local emergency, the authorities in the affected area are allowed to acquire or use land and personal property in response to the emergency.
They may also authorize or compel people to provide the kind of assistance they are qualified to provide, if necessary, to require the evacuation of areas and the removal of livestock and animals, and to destroy or remove structures, trees and crops if necessary.
They may enter buildings without orders if their entry is necessary to carry out an emergency plan.
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