City Hall cautiously watching atmospheric rivers approach

Environment Canada is forecasting two or three more atmospheric rivers may hit the province through the weekend and into next week.

An atmospheric river is the same type of weather event that led to the historic flooding in Merritt and around B.C two weeks ago, but city officials are happy to report the latest systems aren’t forecast to batter the Merritt area.

“The EOC is very much aware of the atmospheric weather events coming into the area. We are closely working with Environment Canada, the River Forecast Centre, and Emergency Management BC to make sure we have the most updated information,” said Information Officer Allan Stebbing.

“There is obviously concern because there has been flooding and affects to the river course, however the impacts that are forecast for this area are less than they were for the initial event. We are monitoring and that is part of the reason everybody is being kept on evacuation alert,” added Stebbing.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for a stretch of the Coquihalla south of Merritt, forecasting 40-60 mm of rain beginning Saturday afternoon and carrying through Sunday night.

“Strong warming will accompany this system causing snow levels to rise well above the mountain tops on Saturday and Sunday. Snowmelt will contribute to runoff, increasing the risk of flooding and possibly impacting vulnerable landscapes and infrastructure,” reads a report from Environment Canada.