During an emergency, the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) is opened by order of the Band Council.
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Evacuation Orders and Alerts
Evacuation Orders
- May 2nd 0300 Evacuation Order rescinded
- May 2nd 2100 Evacuation Order rescinded Partially
- May 3rd 1600 Evacuation Order rescinded
- May 4th 1600 Evacuation Order rescinded
- May 5th 1200 Evacuation Order rescinded
Evacuation Alerts
- May 2nd Evacuation Alert rescinded
Evacuation Order Rescinds
- May 11th 1630 Evacuation Order rescind
- May 16th 1600 Evacuation Order rescind partial
- May 25th 0900 Evacuation Order rescind
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All Evacuation Orders and rescinds lifted for Parker’s Cove
Way’ Community Members,
We’ve been receiving some calls from residents this morning.
All Evacuation Orders and Alerts for Parker’s cove have been lifted as of 0900 hours this morning. The OKIB EOC uses current information available to us for addressing and some addresses may be missing from those described in the rescinds. This rescind applies to any addresses which may have been missed on the rescind orders.
Re-Entry package
The OKIB EOC has put together a small re-entry info package to help residents.
The package contains info on first re-entry steps, how to clean your home, where to dispose sandbags at and more.
The OKIB ESS Center (#8 Bonneau road) will be open today 9:00 to 4:30 to hand out Re Entry Information Packages and Red Cross Cleaning Kits one per household (while supplies last).
View the re-entry package in PDF form
RESCIND OF THE EVACUATION ORDER FOR
Parker’s Cove Properties
May 25 , 2023 AND TIME: 0900 hours
The Evacuation Orders issued by the Okanagan Indian Band on May 2nd (0300 + 2100), May 4th (1530) & 5th (1200), 2023 pursuant to Okanagan Indian Band Council Resolution Declaration of a Local State of Emergency dated May 1, 2023 has been rescinded.
The Evacuation Order Rescind is in effect for the following extending areas:
May 2nd 0300 - Parkers Cove Residents on the South Side of Falcon Avenue adjacent to Whiteman’s Creek. Residents # 161-195 Falcon Avenue including 54 and 55
May 2nd 2100 - Parkers Cove Residents of Falcon Avenue 139-160, 196-223, 225-239
May 4th 1530 - Deer Street #130, Elk Street #114, Lakeshore Drive #53
May 5th 1200 -Falcon Avenue #708, 131 -138
Use this link to view the Evacuation Order rescind in PDF
RESCIND OF THE EVACUATION ALERT FOR
Parkers Cove Residents of Grouse Avenue, Deer Street, Elk Street, Falcon Avenue, Lakeshore Drive
May 25, 2023 AND TIME: 0800 hours
The Evacuation Alert issued by the Okanagan Indian Band on May 2, 2023 at 21:00 (9:00pm) pursuant to Okanagan Indian Band Council Resolution Declaration of a Local State of Emergency dated May 1, 2023 has been rescinded.
The Evacuation Alert Rescind is in effect for the following extending areas:
Grouse Avenue: 240-283, 291-320, 334-349
Deer Street: 115-130
Elk Street: 89-114
Lakeshore Drive: 34-53
Falcon Avenue: 224
Reception center open for re-entry package & cleaning kit pick up - May 25th
The OKIB ESS Reception Center at New Horizon #8 Bonneau Road will be open from 9:00 to 4:30 to hand out Re Entry Information Packages and Red Cross Cleaning Kits one per household (while supplies last).
Applying for Disaster Financial Assistance
The Province has declared the 2023 Freshet event to be eligible for Disaster Financial Assistance.
Once Evacuation Orders are lifted those impacted by the flood should be taking pictures of their damage and keeping any receipts related to clean up, repairs or restoration. The program doesn’t offer 100 percent reimbursement, but it does offer some.
Affected residents are encouraged to contact DFA at 1 888 257 4777 (toll free), or email at [email protected]
Please ensure DFA applications are submitted by August 14, 2023 as this is the deadline for submissions.
EOC Update - May 17, 1200 hours
Way’ Community Members,
The OKIB EOC is currently working towards an Evacuation Order and Evacuation Alert rescind for all remaining properties. Demobilization work of flood mitigation measures is currently on going in the Parker’s cove area and removal of flood mitigation measures will continue throughout this week and likely into the next. Services within Parker’s Cove are also still being assessed by Property Management with work towards returning full services to residents ongoing currently.
With these considerations in mind the Evacuation Orders (and Alert) still in place will be extended until May 25th.
ESS Update
The ESS center is open today, and will likely be open until 2pm today, May 17th. ESS will be doing another 7 day renewal period on May 18th but will be closed this weekend. See attached ESS Hours image for more details.
Notice for re-entering residents
Way’ Community Members,
As a reminder for residents returning to their homes, please return sandbags to the sandbag station north of Whiteman’s creek. Do not dump sand or sandbags into the creek or lake.
Please also be advised that there may still be crews in equipment working in the area as recovery and demobilization efforts continue.
RESCIND OF THE EVACUATION ORDER FOR
Properties - Raven Road along Saskatoon. Adjacent to the mouth Whiteman’s Creek
May 16, 2023 AND TIME: 1600 hours
The Evacuation Order issued by the Okanagan Indian Band on May 2, 2023 at 21:00 (9:00pm) pursuant to Okanagan Indian Band Council Resolution Declaration of a Local State of Emergency dated May 1, 2023 has been rescinded.
The Evacuation Order Rescind is in effect for the following extending areas:
Properties - Raven Road along Saskatoon. Adjacent to the mouth Whiteman’s Creek
EOC Update
May 15, 1200 hours
Way’ Community Members,
OKIB will be doing it’s last round of creek checks today. Over the weekend river flows have peaked and are now receding from freshet flow levels. The emergency Operations Center will be focusing on completing remaining work so that Evacuation Order areas can be rescinded.
The EOC is creating a Sandbag removal plan, and will be providing a designated disposal site. Danger Tree removal on both sides of Whiteman’s creek will be taking place today. After Danger Tree removal is completed, then demobilization of equipment can begin taking place.
ESS Update
The ESS center is closed today and will reopen tomorrow, Tuesday May 16th.
The OKIB EOC would like to remind everyone that Emergency Support Services which were provided to evacuees will begin tapering off soon. Emergency Support Services Evacuees affected by the flood should contact your Insurance provider as soon as possible to start your insurance claim and get a alternative lodging solution from your insurance provider.
EOC Hours update - Weekend
Way' Community Members,
The OKIB EOC will be open from 8am-4pm Saturday, May 13th.
The EOC will be closed on Sunday May 14th.
The OKIB EOC will resume regular hours on Monday May 15th.
Emergency Contact EOC contact: 250-241--5809
EOC Update - May 12, 1200 hours
Way’ Community Members,
The OKIB EOC continues regular monitoring of creeks on reserve during the spring Freshet event. Rapid Damage Assessments of affected properties were completed for properties South of Whiteman’s creek yesterday. The EOC is still assessing Sandbag removal planning and will be providing a designated disposal site. Danger tree assessments have taken place and some danger trees have been identified in the Evacuation Order area. Removal of danger trees are scheduled for early next week.
Debris and sediment removal work are both continuing today and are expected to continue over the next few weekdays.
OKIB Would like to also like to advise boaters in the North arm of Okanagan lake to exercise caution while boating in the area. There is a large amount of debris dispersing from the mouths of the creeks in the vicinity of the North arm of Okanagan lake. Fast flowing water can still pose a danger and the public is advised to stay clear of fast-moving creeks and rivers.
ESS Update
Today is the last day before the weekend to get your ESS extensions done! The ESS center will be open until 2pm today and closed from May 13, 14th & 15th. Currently Supports are being extended until Thursday May 18th.
The OKIB EOC would like to remind everyone that Emergency Support Services which were provided to evacuees will begin tapering off soon. Emergency Support Services Evacuees affected by the flood should contact your Insurance provider as soon as possible to start your insurance claim and get a alternative lodging solution from your insurance provider.
Weekend Emergency ESS contact number 250-309-7603
Post Evacuation Order rescind BC Hydro reconnection.
Way’ Community Members,
For Residents returning to their homes after the Evacuation Order rescind has occurred, your home may have been disconnected from BC Hydro services as a precaution during the emergency. To get your services reconnected there are some next steps you will need to follow:
Step 1: Individual landowners in areas where the evacuation order area has been rescinded will need to get a sign off from a certified electrician to request BC Hydro reconnect their electricity.
Step 2: Phone BC Hydro to provide the certified electrician’s okay to reconnect.
BC Hydro – 1 800 224 9376
RESCIND OF THE EVACUATION ORDER FOR
Beach Front Properties between Raven Road to # 209 Saskatoon Road
May 11, 2023 AND TIME: 16:30 hours
The Evacuation Order issued by the Okanagan Indian Band on May 3, 2023 at 16:00 (4:00pm) pursuant to Okanagan Indian Band Council Resolution Declaration of a Local State of Emergency dated May 1, 2023 has been rescinded.
The Evacuation Order Rescind is in effect for the following extending areas:
Beach Front Properties between Raven Road to #209 Saskatoon Road.
View Evacuation Order Rescind in PDF form
Reminder about permissions - No access into Evacuation Order area
Way’ Everyone.
Just a reminder that there is no permission to access properties south of Whiteman’s creek through Parker’s Cove. The OKIB EOC would like to remind everyone that Falcon ave is still considered closed to non emergency personnel and is an Evacuation order area.
The OKIB EOC has also received notice of drones being flown in Parkers Cove in the Evacuation Order area. We would like to remind everyone that drones are not permitted within Evacuation Order areas. We would also ask that out of respect for evacuated residents that people refrain from flying drones or trespassing into the Evacuation Order area.
EOC Update - May 11, 1200 hours
Way’ Community Members,
The OKIB EOC continues regular monitoring of creeks on reserve during the spring Freshet event. Rapid Damage Assessments of affected properties will be beginning today. RDA’s help the Emergency Operations Center assess which properties have undertaken damage during the freshet event.
Warmer weather is expected as we come into the weekend. Helicopter flights over the watershed area have indicated that there is no longer enough snowpack to create significant changes in freshet flow or flood danger. Fast flowing water can still pose a threat and the public is advised to stay clear of fast-moving creeks and rivers.
OKIB Would like to also like to advise boaters in the North arm of Okanagan lake to exercise caution while boating in the area. There is a large amount of debris dispersing from the mouths of the creeks in the vicinity of the North arm of Okanagan lake.
ESS Update
The ESS center will be open until 6pm today, May 11th to do ESS extensions. Evacuees should come to have your extensions done by Friday as the ESS will be closed from May 13, 14th & 15th. Currently Supports are being extended until Thursday May 18th.
The OKIB EOC would like to remind everyone that Emergency Support Services which were provided to evacuees will begin tapering off soon. Emergency Support Services Evacuees affected by the flood should contact your Insurance provider as soon as possible to start your insurance claim and get a alternative lodging solution from your insurance provider.
EOC Update - May 10, 1300 hours
Way’ Community Members,
The OKIB EOC continues regular monitoring of creeks on reserve during the spring Freshet event. As mentioned earlier, OKIB will be actioning a number of small log jams in Nashwito and Equesis creek which should be completed by end of day.
ESS Update
The ESS center will be open until 2pm today, May 10th. ESS extensions will be taking place this week, Evacuees should come to have your extensions done by Friday as the ESS will be closed from May 13, 14th & 15th. Currently Supports are being extended until Thursday May 18th.
The OKIB EOC would like to remind everyone that Emergency Support Services which were provided to evacuees will begin tapering off soon. Emergency Support Services Evacuees affected by the flood should contact your Insurance provider as soon as possible to start your insurance claim and get a alternative lodging solution from your insurance provider.
EOC Update - May 10 0831 hours
Way' Community Members,
The OKIB EOC will be actioning a few log jams on Nashwito & Equesis creeks today. These actions are being undertaken as a prevention method.
Please be advised that you may see equipment being moved around this morning.
EOC Update - May 9th 1200hrs
Way’ Community Members,
Yesterday evening the watersheds above OKIB received 6mm of rain. Crews will be out again today to monitor creeks in response. Weather for the Vernon area has a low percent chance for rain today and tomorrow into the evening before forming a warming trend over the next 7 day period.
Equipment demobilization will be taking place this week with mitigation efforts being lifted out of flood affected areas. As usual OKIB Crews continue to do regular creek checks of creeks on reserve and provide feedback to the EOC. Current creek reports across the reserve are within regular flow rates for spring freshet season.
Re entry planning is currently taking place for flood affected areas. The Management team at Parker’s Cove is actively working on restoring services to the Affected area and coordinating on re-entry planning with the OKIB EOC.
Evacuees affected by the flood who have insurance should contact your Insurance provider as soon as possible to start your insurance claim and get a temporary lodging solution from your insurance provider.
Weather info provided from weather.gc.ca
EOC Update
May 8th, 1300 hours
Way’ Community Members,
OKIB EOC Operations crews took a helicopter ride on Sunday May 7th to monitor creeks and watersheds on reserve. The River Morphologist (a river flow specialist) noted that bearing a significant weather or erosion event occurring, that there was not a significant risk of continued debris flow.
Dredging operations to remove silt build ups will continue until completed to help alleviate the potential of freshet flows breaching the creek banks again. OKIB Crews will continue with monitoring operations Within Whiteman’s Creek as well as other creek systems on reserve. Mitigation systems will slowly be demobilized this week such as tiger damns and gabions as freshet flows have begun to be stabilized to the creek banks. OKIB crews will also be beginning rapid damage assessments this week of flood affected areas. Damage Assessments help the EOC gain a greater understanding of what impacts have occurred during flooding and can also help inform ESS supports.
ESS Update
Emergency Support Services which were provided to evacuees will begin tapering off soon. Evacuees affected by the flood should contact your Insurance provider as soon as possible to start your insurance claim and get a temporary lodging solution from your insurance provider.
May 7, 16:00 hours
OKIB EOC Afternoon Update
OKIB Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) continues to monitor Whiteman Creek and other creeks on the Westside during the 2023 freshet flooding event.
As reported earlier, creek flows have reduced substantially today; however, there is still 39 cm of snowpack in the watershed that will come down.
OKIB Emergency Management crews flew over the watershed today to visually assess the situation. It is hoped that lower overnight temperatures will continue to slow the rate of water coming down the mountain and spread the effects over a longer period of time. Five other creeks on the Westside are being monitored as well.
Crews continue to remove silt and debris near Whiteman Creek bridge. The Creek fills up with silt which accumulates and raises the bottom of the riverbed, effectively pushing the water out of the creek causing flooding.
Please note that Forestry Service Roads and OKIB roads may be unstable or impassable due to slides or washouts. Backcountry road users are advised that the roads closed in October 2021 across the Thompson Okanagan region, following 15 severe wildfires, remain closed. Travel in the north Westside backcountry is not recommended (see photo below). You can read about the backcountry closures here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/release...
OKIB reminds people that dumping garbage at the sandbagging site or anywhere on Reserve Lands and in the backcountry is both rude and illegal.
Real-Time Hydrometric Data Map
Anyone wishing to track the flow of creeks in the area can visit the Government of Canada’s website for Real Time Hydrometric Data. Note that these water flow readings are taken in the watershed several kilometres inland. Water flows will be higher at the mouth of a creek: https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/m...
Photos by OKIB:
Roads in the backcountry are unstable as indicated by this section of road.
The bridge on Maw Main FSR is washed out.
May 7, 10:00 Hours
OKIB EOC Morning Update
OKIB Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) continues to monitor Whiteman’s Creek and other creeks on the Westside during the Freshet flooding event.
Creek flows have reduced substantially today; however, there is still 39 cm of snowpack in the watershed that will come down.
Please note: A helicopter will be landing in Komasket Park today to fly OKIB Emergency Management crews over the watershed today to visually assess the situation as it evolves. It is hoped that lower overnight temperatures will continue to slow the rate of water coming down the mountain and spread the effects over a longer period of time.
Work by OKIB Emergency Management crews to remove silt and debris near Whiteman Creek bridge. The Creek is filled with silt and water may overtop the bridge.
Five other creeks on the Westside are rising but have not overflowed.
The OKIB Emergency Support Services is closed today (Sunday) and will reopen Monday at 10 AM. The ESS is located at #8 Bonneau Rd at New Horizons. Currently 55 total households and 110 evacuees have registered with ESS services.
May 7, 08:45 Hours
Real-Time Hydrometric Data Map
Want to track the water flow of creeks in the area? Follow this link: https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/map/index_e.html?type=real_time
Note that these water flow readings are taking in the watershed several kilometres inland. Water flows will be higher at the mouth of a creek.
May 6, 16:00 Hours
OKIB EOC Afternoon Update
OKIB continues to monitor Whiteman’s Creek and other creeks on the Westside during the Freshet flooding event.
A community update meeting for evacuated residents only will take place at the Best Western Hotel in Vernon at 5 PM Friday.
Emergency Management crews continue to move silt and debris from Whiteman’s Creek bridge. The Creek is filled with silt and water may overtop the bridge. Two excavators and a skid steer continue to move debris from Whiteman’s Creek. A third excavator is working in our gravel pit. With 20,000 sandbags in reserve, Emergency Management staff have plenty of resources.
Five other creeks on the Westside are rising but have not overflowed.
The OKIB Emergency Support Services is closed tomorrow and will reopen Monday at 10 AM. It is located at #8 Bonneau Rd at New Horizons. Currently 55 total households and 110 evacuees have registered with ESS services.
On the Operational front, OKIB delivered 285 dump truck loads of sand to the Whiteman’s creek sandbagging station since Monday.
May 6, 11:00 hours
Equipment list for Emergency work being created
The OKIB EOC has received numerous requests and offers of heavy equipment over the last few days. The EOC is creating a list of interested parties with equipment who would be available to work on an as needed basis that we can pull from.
If you have equipment and supports available, and are interested in becoming pre-qualified to work during the Freshet flooding event, please contact our Logistics department: [email protected]
- WCB required
- Please include a list of available equipment & rates
- Previous flood experience is considered an asset.
Please also note that due to liability The OKIB EOC cannot accept volunteers at this time.
May 6, 10:00 Hours
OKIB EOC Update
OKIB Continues to Monitor Whiteman’s creek and other creeks on the Westside during the Freshet flooding event.
OKIB EOC wishes to inform people that for the safety of volunteers and crews, volunteer help is not required at this time. We appreciate the offers of help; however, the situation is developing, and we currently have more than enough assistance. No additional sandbagging is required. Volunteers could be exposing themselves to potential hazards while impeding the work of OKIB Emergency Management crews.
Five other creeks on the Westside are rising and resources may be required at those locations. With over 100,000 sandbags filled and deployed, additional sandbags are not required.
Emergency Management staff are diverting resources away from the Whiteman Creek flood and preparing for rising creek levels at five other locations on the Westside. With 20,000 sandbags in reserve, Emergency Management staff have plenty of resources.
RCMP will be patrolling the evacuation area and ensuing people are adhering to the evacuation order.
The OKIB Emergency Support services continues to offer services to evacuated residents and is located back at #8 Bonneau Rd at New Horizons. Currently 55 total households and 100 evacuees have registered with ESS services.
On the Operational front, OKIB delivered 279 dump truck loads of sand to the Whiteman’s creek sandbagging station since Monday. Crews today continue to action log jams along Whiteman’s creek above the bridge and dredge the creek to help restore flows to the creek bed with the help of six machines plus three additional machines form MOTI on site 24/7.
Ministry of transportation crews continue to work to keep debris jams free of Whiteman’s creek bridge.
OKIB hopes to complete log jam debris removal and mitigation efforts before potential heavy precipitation within the next 72 hours.
May 6, 14:00 hours
Emergency Support Services - Hours of Operation
Reception centre closing at 2 pm today, May 6, reopening Monday May 8 at 10 AM
The Reception Centre is located at the New Horizons Building at 8 Bonneau Road.
May 5th 1400 Hours
EOC Update
Way’ Community Members,
OKIB Continues to Monitor Whiteman’s creek and others during the Freshet flooding event.
A small additional Evacuation Order was issued at 1200 hours for remaining houses along Falcon Ave in Parker’s Cove. OKIB would like to remind non emergency personnel that the Evacuation Order area is closed due to Health and safety and that choosing to remain in an area that is under an Evacuation Order puts yourself, your family, and first responders in danger. The OKIB Emergency Support services continues to offer services to evacuated residents and is located back at #8 Bonneau Rd at New Horizons. Currently 55 total households and 100 evacuees have registered with ESS services.
On the Operational front, OKIB delivered 12 dump truck loads of sand to the Whiteman’s creek sandbagging station yesterday, May 5th. Crews today continue to action log jams along Whiteman’s creek above the bridge and dredge the creek to help restore flows to the creek bed with the help of 4 machines on site.
Ministry of transportation crews continue to work to keep debris jams free of Whiteman’s creek bridge.
OKIB hopes to complete log jam debris removal and mitigation efforts before potential heavy precipitation within the next 72 hours.
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EVACUATION ORDER
Parkers Cove Residents of Falcon Avenue
May 5, 2023 AND TIME: 12:00 hours
Pursuant to Band Council Resolution dated May 1, 2023, an Evacuation Order has been issued by Okanagan Indian Band due to immediate danger to life safety caused by: Flooding of Whiteman’s Creek
Members of the Okanagan Indian Band, Fire Dept/bylaw and other applicable agencies will be expediting this action.
The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following areas:
Parkers Cove Residents: Falcon Avenue
#708, 131 -138
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May 5th, 2121 hours 2023 –Non Emergency personnel please vacate the Evacuation Order area
During an Evacuation Order, evacuees should do the following:
1. Leave the area immediately. Choosing to remain puts yourself and others in danger
2. Follow instructions provided on where to go
3. Visit Emergency Info BC or follow @EmergencyInfoBC for news and updates
4. Wait for the evacuation to be rescinded before returning home
5. You may be told to register online with the Evacuee Registration Assistance (ERA) tool to receive emergency support services
Risks and dangers of not evacuating
Receiving an Evacuation Order can be an emotional experience. You may be reluctant to leave your home and community.
However, choosing to remain in an area that is under an Evacuation Order puts yourself, your family, and first responders in danger:
• Evacuation routes can change or become impassible
• Services, utilities and businesses that you rely on daily may be shut down
• Help may not be able to reach an evacuated area because of a risk to their own safety or access is blocked
In other jurisdictions, fatalities have occurred when people chose to remain behind or waited too long to leave.
For example, according to a report from Australia’s Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre, 31% of the 552 wildfire-related fatalities in that country from 1956 to 2008 were the result of people evacuating too late after an evacuation order was issued. Another 26% of the deaths were related to people attempting to defend properties against an advancing wildfire.
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May 4th, 2121 hours 2023 – No more Sand for tonight
Way’ Community Members
There will be no more sand delivered for tonight to the Whiteman’s Creek sand bag station.
We have delivered 12 dump truck loads of sand tonight to the Whiteman’s creek sand bag station and equipment operator and truck driver involved with delivery and loading of bags will be shutting down for the night.
Sand and Sand bags are still available at Komasket park sand bag station for residents in the Evacuation Alert area.
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OKIB ESS hours
Way' Community Members. Here are the upcoming hours for the OKIB ESS for the next few days.
Please note that the ESS will be moving back down to #8 Bonneau rd
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EVACUATION ORDER
For the following properties: #130 Deer Street, #114 Elk Street and #53 Lakeshore Drive
May 4, 2023 AND TIME: 15:30 hours
Pursuant to Band Council Resolution dated May 1, 2023, an Evacuation Order has been issued by Okanagan Indian Band due to immediate danger to life safety caused by: Flooding of Whiteman’s Creek
Members of the Okanagan Indian Band, Fire Dept/bylaw and other applicable agencies will be expediting this action.
The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following extending areas:
For Properties - Deer Street #130, Elk Street #114, Lakeshore Drive #53
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EOC Update - 1245 hours May 4th
The bridge crossing Whiteman’s creek continues to be monitored to remove log jams. Flow remains high and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will continue assist in monitoring duties and determining the safety of the crossing. The bridge is currently in single lane alternating traffic state due to water levels impacting south bound lanes.
OKIB Crews continue to plan and action mitigation efforts on both sides of the creek in the flooding area. Mitigation efforts have been difficult with surges occurring. Crews have noted some flood water penetration along Falcon ave as well as over land water on the South side of the creek. Ground instabilities have been causing tree falls in the area making creating hazards for crews working in the area.
OKIB also continues to order sand for sandbags as well as other mitigation methods and maintain a sandbagging station. Crews on site at the flooding area also have multiple pieces of earth moving machinery to expediate mitigation efforts.
OKIB will continue to monitor the Freshet flooding situation and provide updates as possible.
**UPDATE 1300 Hours - Ministry of Forest staff are also conducting monitoring activities in the watersheds above Whiteman's creek to keep the OKIB EOC well informed.
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May 4th, 2023, 0940 hours – Request for available equipment
Way’ Community Members
The OKIB EOC has received numerous requests and offers regarding Equipment available over the last few days. The EOC will be creating a list of interested parties with equipment available who would be available to work on an as needed basis that we can pull from as needed.
If you have equipment & supports available and are interested in working during the Freshet flooding event, please contact our Logistics department: [email protected]
-WCB required
-Please Include a list of available equipment & rates
Please also note that due to liability The OKIB EOC cannot accept volunteers at this time
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May 3rd, 2023, 2100 hours – Non Emergency Personnel advised to leave the area
Way’ Community Members
OKIB continues to monitor the creek systems on reserve during the Freshet flooding event and work towards mitigation measures.
OKIB Strongly recommends that non emergency personnel leave the Evacuation Order area. OKIB Would like to remind evacuated residents still residing in the order area that staying in the vicinity is at your own risk to your life and health.
Flood waters today have been undermining land and undercutting sizable trees in the area, causing uncontrolled falls. While flow levels were reduced for some of the day the EOC would like to remind residents in the area that conditions can change rapidly including land instability, flood water flow levels and water depth.
-Stay clear of fast-flowing rivers and potentially unstable riverbanks
-Avoid recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating or hiking near high streamflow rivers or streams
-Remember, high streamflow can easily trap strong swimmers, increasing risk of drowning During a High Streamflow Advisory, conditions can change quickly.
-Understand the risks and get prepared by visiting https://www2.gov.bc.ca/.../prepa.../know-your-hazards/floods
EVACUATION ORDER
Beach Front Properties between Raven Road to # 209 Saskatoon Road
May 3, 2023 AND TIME: 16:00 hours
Pursuant to Band Council Resolution dated May 1, 2023, an Evacuation Order has been issued by Okanagan Indian Band due to immediate danger to life safety caused by: Flooding of Whiteman’s Creek
Members of the Okanagan Indian Band, Fire Dept/bylaw and other applicable agencies will be expediting this action.
The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following extending areas:
From Beach Front Properties between Raven Road to #209 Saskatoon Road.
Click here to view the Evacuation Order in PDF form
Whiteman's bridge - Single Alternating Traffic
May 3rd, 1420 hours
Good Afternoon Community Members,
Whiteman's creek bridge will be going into single lane alternating traffic while Crews are clearing debris out of the creek bed in the surrounding area.
Bridge traffic will resume after Debris removal work has completed.
Freshet Flooding Event Safety
OKIB would like to remind the public that the areas around the flood event are under Evacuation Order and Alert and may contain hazards to health and safety. Non Emergency personnel should stay clear of the Flood event areas and allow Emergency crews to work.
Ground erosions during a flood such as Escarpments can be very hazardous and can collapse or expand without warning. The OKIB EOC advises the public to stay clear of flood waters, fast flowing rivers and potentially unstable ground near flooding events for risk to health and safety.
Avoid recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, boating or hiking near high streamflow rivers or streams
Remember, high streamflow can easily trap strong swimmers, increasing risk of drowning
During a High Streamflow Advisory, conditions can change quickly. Understand the risks and get prepared by visiting https://www2.gov.bc.ca/.../prepa.../know-your-hazards/floods
The attached photo is an example of unstable ground which should be avoided during a flooding event.
May 3rd 2023 1000 hours EOC Update Weather
Way’ Community Members
OKIB continues to monitor the creek systems on reserve during the Freshet flooding event and work towards mitigation measures.
The forecast for the rest of the week shows a cooling trend which is helpful for slowing the rate of melt for snowpack still in the higher elevation of the watershed above Whiteman’s creek.
There is also precipitation expected in the forecast with between 7 to 11 millimeters of precipitation in the watersheds above whiteman's Creek over the next 5 days.
Date: May 2nd, 2023 0000 hours (12:00pm)
ESS Update - ESS will close at 1:00am
Way’ Community Members
The OKIB ESS center at #8 Bonneau road will be closing tonight at 1:00 am and reopening tomorrow at 1030 am, May 3rd at different location which is the building adjacent to the band office at 12420 Westside road.
ESS Phone – 250-309-7603
EVACUATION ALERT
Parkers Cove Residents of Grouse Avenue, Deer Street, Elk Street, Falcon Avenue, Lakeshore Drive
05/02/2023 AND TIME 22:00
An Evacuation Alert has been issued by Okanagan Indian Band at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).
Flooding of the Whiteman’s Creek
Because of the potential danger to life and health, the Okanagan Indian Band has issued an Evacuation Alert for the following areas within Parkers Cove:
Grouse Avenue: 240-283, 291-320, 334-349
Deer Street: 115-130
Elk Street: 89-114
Lakeshore Drive: 34-53
Falcon Avenue: 224
To see the Evacuation Alert in PDF form click here
End of Evacuation Alert message
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EVACUATION ORDER
Parkers Cove Residents of Falcon Avenue 139-160, 196-223, 225-239
Residents south of Whiteman’s Creek Raven Road along Saskatoon Road
May 2, 2023 AND TIME: 21:00 hours
Pursuant to Band Council Resolution dated May 1, 2023, an Evacuation Order has been issued by Okanagan Indian Band due to immediate danger to life safety caused by: Flooding of Whiteman’s Creek
Members of the Okanagan Indian Band, Fire Dept/bylaw and other applicable agencies will be expediting this action.
The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following areas:
Parkers Cove Residents: Falcon Avenue
139-160
196-223, 225-239
Raven Road along Saskatoon. Adjacent to the mouth Whiteman’s Creek
YOU MUST LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
• Follow the travel route provided and register at: #8 Bonneau Road, New Horizons building.
• If you need transportation assistance from the area, advise the person providing this notice or call: (250) 241-5809
• Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers.
• Close all windows and doors.
• Close gates (latch) but do not lock.
• Gather your family and, if you have room, take a neighbour or someone needing transportation. Do not use more vehicles then you have to.
• Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and keys) only if they are immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
• Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.
Further information will be issued at May 3, 2023 at 1200 hours or visit OKIB Facebook page or OKIB Web page, okib.ca for more information.
Click here to view the Evacuation order in PDF form.
YOU MUST LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
- Follow the travel route provided and register at: #8 Bonneau Road, New Horizons building.
- If you need transportation assistance from the area, advise the person providing this notice or call: (250) 241-5809
- Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers.
- Close all windows and doors.
- Close gates (latch) but do not lock.
- Gather your family and, if you have room, take a neighbour or someone needing transportation. Do not use more vehicles then you have to.
- Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and keys) only if they are immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
- Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.
Further information will be issued at May 3, 2023 at 1200 hours or visit OKIB Facebook page or OKIB Web page, okib.ca for more information.
EVACUATION ORDER Parkers Cove Residents of Falcon Avenue South Adjacent to Whiteman’s Creek and Residents May 2, 2023 AND TIME: 0300
Pursuant to Band Council Resolution dated May 1, 2023, an Evacuation Order has been issued by Okanagan Indian Band due to immediate danger to life safety caused by: Flooding of Whiteman’s Creek Members of the Okanagan Indian Band, Fire Dept/bylaw and other applicable agencies will be expediting this action.
The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following areas:
Parkers Cove Residents on the South Side of Falcon Avenue adjacent to Whiteman’s Creek Residents
# 161-195 Falcon Avenue including 54 and 55
Click here for the PDF version of the Evacuation Order
YOU MUST LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:
- Follow the travel route provided and register at: #8 Bonneau Road, New Horizons building.
- If you need transportation assistance from the area, advise the person providing this notice or call: (250) 241-5809
- Shut off all gas and electrical appliances, other than refrigerators and freezers.
- Close all windows and doors.
- Close gates (latch) but do not lock.
- Gather your family and, if you have room, take a neighbour or someone needing transportation. Do not use more vehicles then you have to.
- Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and keys) only if they are immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
- Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.
Further information will be issued at May 2, 2023 at 1200 hours or visit OKIB Facebook page or OKIB Web page, okib.ca for more information.
ESS Services will be reopening - 1pm, May 2nd.
EOC Update – ESS Services update
Way’ Evacuees
OKIB ESS Services will be reopening for evacuated residents at #8 Bonneau Road, New Horizons building this afternoon at 1pm, May 2nd.
