Thompson region upgraded to a Flood Watch

MERRITT – The B.C. River Forecast Centre has upgraded the High Streamflow Advisory to a Flood Watch for the Thompson area, which includes Merritt.

A Flood Watch means river levels are rising and will approach or may exceed bankfull. Flooding of areas adjacent to affected rivers may occur.

Officials said the warmer temperatures coming in the forecast is the reason why the advisory is being put into place.

“A strong upper ridge that brought hot temperatures across the province is breaking down,” wrote officials in a statement. “An upper low is expected to bring unsettled weather and showers, particularly for the South Interior. Another period of warmer temperatures is expected next week, with well above temperatures expected”

Some tips the government released include:

• Stay clear of fast-flowing rivers
• Stay clear of potentially unstable riverbanks
• Avoid recreational activities near high streamflow rivers
  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Hiking