As water levels continue to rise, multiple areas in B.C.’s Interior have been placed under an evacuation order.
Due to the threat of flooding, the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) has ordered the evacuation of 148 properties in the Tulameen area due to “immediate danger to life and safety.”
WATCH: 148 properties evacuated in Tulameen area
The Tulameen Fire Department is coordinating the evacuation. An Emergency Social Services Reception Centre has been set up at Riverside Community Centre.
“This is definitely an area that has traditionally bad flooding but this year is exceptional,” RDOS information officer Cameron Baughen said.
The Cariboo Regional District has declared a state of emergency for Electoral Area I and issued an evacuation order for some areas in the Nazko Valley due to “immediate danger from flooding.”
Members of the RCMP and other staff members are going door to door with the evacuation order.
Residents are being asked to evacuate south, via Nazko Road to Quesnel.
An evacuation order has also been declared for nine properties in the Killiney Beach area, located on the west side of the Okanagan Lake.
The evacuation order is due to slope instability. Residents are urged to avoid the area due to hazards related to the unstable slope.
Meanwhile, a local state of emergency has also been declared in Cawston near Keremeos due to the threat of flooding.
What you should do in case of an evacuation order:
- You must leave the area immediately
- Close all windows and doors
- Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers
- Close gates (latch) but do not lock
- Gather your family: take a neighbour or someone who needs help
- Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and Keys) only if they are immediately available.
- Take pets in pet kennels or on a leash.
- Do not use more vehicles than you have to.
- Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.
For current flood information visit Emergency Info B.C.
— With files from Jon Azpiri