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Province warns of high water as long weekend approaches

High water and hot temperatures increases risk of drowning
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The Similkameen River has dropped from high water but continues to run at a brisk pace.

 

 

Last weekend, the BC Coroners Service began investigations  into the tragic deaths of eight individuals who drowned in B.C.’s  rivers and lakes. These deaths involved individuals from ages 12 to  75 and occurred in a variety of circumstances.

With the forecast for the next week indicating a return to temperatures in the 30’s, the BC Coroners Service and  Emergency Management BC are warning residents and visitors to take  extra care when engaging in water-related activities in an effort to  prevent further loss of life.

High runoff from the winter’s snowpack and heavy rains during the  spring and early summer have left many rivers, streams, and lakes  with much higher water levels than is usual at this time of year. As  well, many rivers and streams, especially in the southern Interior,  are running much faster, and at higher levels, than would normally be  expected by the B.C. Day weekend.

The Similkameen River has retreated from spring flood levels, but continues to have higher than normal current. With the warm temperatures, the urge to head out to a favourite swimming hole will hopefully be tempered by knowledge that caution should be exercised.