A deadline for select groundwater users is less than six months away.

The Province is urging British Columbians to prepare and be diligent as Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued weather alerts for heavy rain and strong winds on Friday, Sept. 17, for communities in south coastal B.C.

A temporary water restriction order is being rescinded earlier than planned for water licensees and groundwater users in the Thompson Okanagan region’s Bessette Creek area.

B.C.’s ranchers can access up to $20 million to help with extraordinary expenses they incur for feed, shelter, animal health and safety, and the transportation of their livestock as a result of this year’s wildfires and drought.

Drought conditions and aggressive fire behaviour have contributed to this year’s extreme wildfire season.

Concerns about water supply security, drought and water scarcity remain an issue for most of the southern half of British Columbia even as cooler temperatures and rain have arrived.

Communities throughout the province are restoring watersheds and wetlands to protect aquatic ecosystems and promote healthier environments for British Columbians and wildlife.

As drought conditions continue for much of the southern Interior, water restriction orders are now in place for two areas in the Thompson-Okanagan region.

The continued unprecedented dry and hot conditions in British Columbia’s southern Interior has prompted government to increase the drought level in the Okanagan to 4.

Effective immediately, recreational fishing in most streams and rivers has been closed in most areas of the South Okanagan.