As the long weekend approaches, people across the province are urged to be careful while enjoying outdoor activities, due to the elevated risk of flooding in many areas of B.C.

As a result of higher than usual snowpacks and heavy rains, many regions are experiencing high river flows and flooding, with rivers and creeks overflowing their banks and carrying increased amounts of heavy debris.

If you are planning to spend time outdoors - especially in low-lying areas or near bodies of water - check with your local regional district about areas of concern or review the Province's current flood information at www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/emergencyinfobc. You can also find up to date information on the flooding situation via Emergency Management BC's Twitter feed. Just follow @EmergencyInfoBC.

To report severe flooding in your area, contact your local municipal government or the Provincial Emergency Coordination Centre at 1 800 663-3456.

Currently across the province, flooding advisories are in place for the following regions:

Flood Watch - Bulkley River, Baker Creek (Quesnel), Willow River, Cottonwood River.

High Streamflow Advisory - Nicola River and Bonaparte River (Ashcroft), Salmon River (near Salmon Arm).

However, it is important to note that all regions of the province could be susceptible to flooding - not just those areas under current advisories.

Quick Facts:

Residents should consider the following preparedness actions -

• To report severe flooding in your area, contact your local municipal government or the Provincial Emergency Coordination Centre at 1 800 663-3456.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels and areas known to flood suddenly.
• Avoid small creeks and rivers, as their channels tend to be narrow and can fill up quickly.
• Keep children and pets away from stream banks. The banks can erode quickly.
• Do not walk or drive through floodwaters.
• Pay attention to weather conditions when you are out camping or enjoying outdoor recreational activities. If it starts to rain heavily, leave the area. Roads can get washed out quickly, and could leave you stranded without a way out.
• Boil water taken from all outdoor sources like rivers or creeks before drinking. Open water can become contaminated from beaver dams, overflowed septic tanks or other sources.
• Organize your individual and family emergency kit. It should contain important documents, prescription medication, a flashlight and first aid kit.
• Secure your home. If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves.
• Listen to radio or television stations for local information and weather reports.

Learn More:

Flooding information from the Province of BC: www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca/emergencyinfobc/

Emergency planning information from the Provincial Emergency Program: www.pep.bc.ca

Current driving conditions and road closures: www.DriveBC.ca

Follow Emergency Management BC on Twitter: @EmergencyInfoBC

Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356 6961

Cheekwan Ho
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261