Increasing water levels will lead to more flooding this week along the Nicola Lake and river.

Nicola Lake is currently filling at a rate in excess of 100 cubic metres per second, which is 40% more than the previous historical maximum, and the lake is rising 24 centimetres per day. 

Thunderstorms with isolated heavy rainfall are anticipated over the Nicola River watershed later this week, increasing streamflows and raising the level of the lake. Lake levels are predicted to rise approximately 1.3 metres above the current elevation, which will likely lead to water going through the emergency spillway. In addition, overbank flooding in Merritt and areas downstream along the Nicola River will occur.

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations owns and operates the Nicola Lake dam and regulates water levels on Nicola Lake. Ministry staff continue to actively monitor conditions through Merritt and around Nicola Lake.  

Property owners along the lake and river are encouraged to move any equipment away from the water. During periods of high flow, river banks may be unstable and more prone to sudden collapse. Stay well away and keep young children and pets away from the banks of fast-flowing streams and flooded areas or bridges.

For more information on flood prevention and flood response, visit: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/preparedbc/know-the-risks/floods