The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources has once again issued a Flood Watch for the Nicola River after rainy weather and ongoing snow-melt has caused the river levels to continue rising.
The warning, issued on Friday, includes the Nicola Lake and areas of the Nicola River upstream of the confluence with the Coldwater River.
“Water flows may result in some degree of localized flooding requiring proactive flood protection along the river within the City,” said David Tomkinson, acting public information officer.
On Thursday, Tomkinson issued a statement saying that the City of Merritt had been advised by the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources that rising water levels were due in part to the inflows of the Nicola Lake exceeding its outflow and that coupled with the weather trend the city could expect the Nicola River level to creep up resulting in seepage to low-lying areas.
The ministry, which owns and operates the Nicola Lake Dam and regulates the water levels, explained that to create space in the Nicola Lake for the forecasted high inflows from the snow melt and precipitation, the ministry increased the release of water from the dam to the Nicola River.
Since water flowing into the lake is higher than controlled outflow, the lake is expected to continue rising for at least another week, according to a ministry press release. Meanwhile, flows in the Nicola River are expected to rise and remain high for at least two to three weeks and residents might be able to expect localized flooding.
“Although the ministry is actively managing Nicola Lake Dam to minimize negative impacts both upstream and downstream of the dam, residents should be aware that unforeseen adverse weather conditions may affect water levels and flow forecasts, and result in some degree of flooding along the length of the river,” stated the press release.
Tomkinson warned residents living adjacent to the Nicola River that they may experience infiltration into pipes and basements as a result of groundwater seepage or basement drain backups.
With public safety in mind, both the ministry and the city warned people to maintain a safe distance from the river.
“During periods of high flow, river banks may be unstable and more prone to sudden collapse,” stated the ministry release. “The public is advised to stay well away from the banks of fast flowing streams and flooded areas or bridges. Young children and pets can be at a particular risk during this period.”
Further, the ministry suggested that the public prepare for flooding in low-lying areas by moving equipment and other assets from these areas to higher ground.
Any damaging flows or obstructions should be reported to the City Hall at 250-378-4224.
