KELOWNA — Officials in the Okanagan are also keeping a very close eye on Okanagan Lake because it was mere centimetres below maximum level before the storm arrived.
If the lake continues to rise, fast-flowing Mission and Mill creeks in the Kelowna area could back up, spilling water into yards and basements.
Rising water levels have forced the Regional District to close the Mission Creek Greenway underpass at the Casorso Road and Gordon Drive bridges.
“The creek level and flow has risen quickly in light of the heavy steady rain received throughout the area since yesterday and is expected to remain high with more rain in the forecast,” says Central Okanagan Regional District spokesman Bruce Smith.
“At the present time, Greenway patrons may continue to use the north-side creek underpass at Gordon Drive which remains open. Please note however, that this too could be subject to closure at any time.”
Some areas of the Okanagan could receive up to 60 millimetres of rain as the system moves though the area.
Environment Canada reports that Vernon has already set a one-day rainfall record for June 19, with 17.9 mm falling on Wednesday. The previous record was 9.4 mm set in 2006.
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