We have updated our policy regarding sandbags and flood management.
Flooding is a common, naturally-occurring event in the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.
Although it can happen at any time of year, the most severe floods typically occur during the spring snowmelt — known as freshet — or during fall and winter. Seasonal flooding is often caused by a mix of heavy rain and snow melt.
Below, please read for information on what to do before, during and after a flood. Also, view the fillable Flood Preparedness Guide, provided by Prepared BC.
What to do Before a Flood
- Flood waters can rise quickly.
- Be ready by developing your emergency plan, putting together a grab-and-go bag and connecting with your neighbours.
- Check your insurance to see if residential flood insurance is available for your property.
- Depending on the severity of flooding, local authorities may issue an evacuation alert or order.
- See more information, and read the province’s updated Flood Preparedness Guide: Be Prepared for Floods
What to do During a Flood
If you face a threatening flood situation:
- Park vehicles away from streams and waterways.
- Do not walk or drive through flood waters.
- Raise electrical appliances.
- Move valuable and special items to upper floors.
- Anchor fuel supplies.
- Listen to local officials if you are asked to evacuate.
What to do After a Flood
- It’s important to restore your home as soon as possible to protect your health and your house’s contents.
- Once your home is safe to enter, follow the steps in the Flood Clean Up Guide.
Recognize the Danger Signs
Heavy snowmelt may contribute to landslides and dangerous debris in creeks and waterways. Be safe and don’t go down to watch the rushing water. If you notice trees beginning to lean or bend near your home, or cracks developing in the hillside, consult an engineer or contact local authorities.
If you live near a waterway, a change in water colour or rapid change in water level (especially a drop) could indicate a problem upstream. Call your local fire, police or public works department immediately if you suspect something out of the ordinary.
Sandbagging
It takes two people about one hour to fill and place 100 sandbags, giving you a one-foot-by-20-foot wall. Make sure you have enough sand, burlap or plastic bags (NOTE: you should tie the ends of plastic bags shut to prevent the sand and bags from washing away), shovels and time to prepare properly.
Instructions on how to build a sandbag dike to protect your property from flood waters.
Sandbag Dike Tips
Flood Preparedness Resources
- View conditions, flood warnings and advisories via BC River Forecast Centre
- View the forecast and weather alerts via Environment Canada
- Register to Voyent Alert! for TNRD emergency notifications
- Follow the TNRD on Facebook and Twitter
- Find sand and sandbag locations, when applicable, on the TNRD Emergency Map
- Fill out the Prepared BC Flood Preparedness Guide