Hot temperatures across much of British Columbia has resulted in a High Streamflow Advisory issued for the Southern Interior.

The BC River Forecast Centre issued the advisory for Mission Creek, Okanagan River, Similkameen River, West Kettle Rivers, Salmon River, and the Nicola River. The daily temperatures have been 10 degree or more above normal for this time of the year, and the hot weather has resulted in rapid melt of high elevation snow packs.

“Streams have been responding to this rapid snowmelt, with many smaller streams in the South Interior seeing a 150-300 per cent increase in flow over the past few days. Flows in many smaller rivers are near or above record levels for this time of year, with many streams at two-year to five-year return period flows,” said the BC River Forecast Centre in a statement.

Photo Credit: FortisBC

In response to the High Streamflow Advisory, FortisBC is reminding customers that live in flood-prone areas to protect their gas and electrical appliances.

“Before any potential flood, know your risks, make a plan, and prepare an emergency kit,” advises Dave McAllister, manager of FortisBC’s emergency program. “There are key things you can do before, during and after a flood occurs, such as determine what to do if you evacuate and when to bring in a licensed gas contractor or qualified electrician.”

Temperatures are expected to ease this week, but they are forecast to remain seasonally high. The public is cautioned to stay clear of rivers during high streamflow events due to quickly flowing water and potentially unstable riverbanks.