HIGH STREAM ADVISORY: Kettle and Granby rivers at risk
By Contributor
The BC River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow warning for several rivers in the Boundary and across the Southern Interior today, including the Kettle and Granby Rivers.
Several days of seasonally hot weather has led to high snowmelt rates over the past two to three days, particularly at the Moyie Mountain , East Creek and Grano Creek snow pack (or pillow) affecting rivers in the East and West Kootenays, Boundary and southern Okanagan.
Snow melt at higher elevations does not appear to be widespread, however, it is expected that the warm temperatures has led to rapid snow melt of low to mid‐elevation snow packs. River levels have been rising quickly, but current real‐time hydrometric gauges in the area are below levels of concern.
High stream flow rates are anticipated to be occurring in smaller, ungauged river systems throughout the region.
A high streamflow advisory means that river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, but that no major flooding is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.
A frontal system expected to work its way across British Columbia through Thursday has Environment Canada forecasting up to 40 millimeters of rain through the region over the Wednesday – Thursday period. Snow melt rates are expected to decline during the passage of this frontal system, however, river levels are expected to remain elevated, or continue to rise, through Friday of this week in response to rainfall.
High stream flow and localized minor flooding in low‐lying areas is possible, and will primarily be confined to smaller watersheds within the region. Flood conditions in medium to larger river systems are not expected at this time.
The River Forecast Centre will continue to monitor conditions and will provide updates as conditions warrant.
