Floods

How to Prepare for a Flood

• Before Floods

  • Check for local flood warnings. You can get updates from local radio, TV news and BC's Flood Warning and Advisories site. 
  • If there's a risk of flooding, let your neighbours know. Also, tell older and vulnerable people who live nearby.
  • Prepare an emergency kit with enough supplies for at least three days.
  • Have an emergency plan so you will know what to do if you are affected by a flood.  
  • When a flood strikes, sandbags can be used as a barrier to divert water and prevent or reduce floodwater damage. Get sand and sandbags in advance.
  • Move vehicles to higher ground so they won't be caught in rising floodwater.
  • Take photographs inside your home. This may help with insurance claims.
  • Turn off the mains' power to your home by switching off the main breaker before you leave. You can be electrocuted in floodwater if the power remains switched on.
  • Put sandbags in toilet bowls to prevent sewage backflow.
  • Shut and lock all windows and doors. This will protect your property and reduce the volume of floodwater entering the building.
  • Take all pets with you when you leave, so they aren't trapped by rising water
• During Floods

  • Don't walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over. Two feet of water can float a car.
  • Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage. Wash your hands and clothes thoroughly in clean water if you're exposed.
  • Don't allow children to play in or near floodwater.
  • Need to leave your home and have nowhere to stay? Your RDNO Emergency Support Services or designated Emergency Reception Centre can help. 
• After Floods

  • Dispose of any food that may have been in floodwater.
  • Boil tap water or use bottled water until supplies are declared safe.
  • Flooding is a stressful experience. If you need support, call 310-6789. The Crisis Line Association of BC can provide emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health. ​
• Post Wildfire Flood Preparedness

  Damage to vegetation as a result of wildfire can result in increased streamflow and flooding within watersheds during freshet or after an intense or prolonged rainstorm for up to five years after an event. Therefore, property owners affected by the 2021 wildfires should assess their risks and prepare for potentially high runoff in the spring. Property owners should also complete inspections on culverts and ditches within the property boundary to ensure clear passage for increased flows. Additionally, the RDNO encourages people to move items that are near shorelines or riverbanks to higher ground for up to three years in preparation for potential high water flows.

  Residents that have or had natural rivers or flat water crossings on their property should inquire with the Ministry of Forests or the Department of Fisheries and Oceans before doing work or altering any riparian or wet areas.

• More Info and Advice

  • Visit Okanagan Basin Water Board's flood basin mapping portal to know flood risks in your area.
  • the Province of BC provides information on recovering from and cleaning up after a flood.
  • Learn how to be flood smart. Flood smart Canada provides educational resources on flooding in Canada.