Province issues high streamflow advisory for Southern Interior including Nicola River, Salmon River

MERRITT — The high snowpack in the Southern Interior alpine is starting to make its way down.

The B.C. River Forecast Centre has now issued a high streamflow advisory for much of the region, including the Nicola River and its tributaries, as well as the Salmon River near Salmon Arm.

In its advisory, the BCRFC says “steady warming is leading to increasing snowmelt rates and river runoff.”

The BCRFC goes on to say low- and mid-elevation snowpack has diminished, but high-elevation snowpack is still quite significant.

It notes moderate to heavy rainfall is expected Friday, bringing projected high flows region-wide into the weekend.

“Personal preparedness is an important part of ensuring that if situations evolve quickly, we are prepared to take action to keep ourselves and our families safe,” said the City of Merritt.

The City recommends that residents:

• subscribe to VoyentAlert!
• follow the City’s website and social media pages and/or listen to Q101 for updates
• prepare 72-hr emergency kits
• have a family emergency plan

MORE: Emergency preparedness (Government of BC)

Free sand for sandbags has also been provided, by the City, in the parking lot across from the Merritt Civic Centre (1950 Mamette Avenue).