Updated story, May 27, 12:20 p.m.:
The B.C. River Forecast Centre has ended the flood watch for the Kaslo River and adjacent areas.
The RDCK said rainfall rates have eased through the region, though additional rain is expected this weekend.
Original Story, May 27, 12:00 p.m.:
The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a flood watch for the Kaslo River and surrounding areas after the river reached elevated flow levels early Tuesday morning.
The River Forecast Centre said the river peaked at 123 cubic metres per second below Kemp Creek, a flow level typically seen in two- to five-year return periods.
While water levels have since begun to drop, the forecast centre said they could still rise again depending on localized weather conditions.
The watch is the result of a period of hot temperatures across the region this week combined with intense rainfall in the area overnight.
The forecast centre and the Regional District of Central Kootenay said fast-moving rivers can create unstable banks and hazardous conditions near waterways.
Both agencies recommend people stay away from riverbanks and avoid entering floodwaters, which may contain unseen hazards and strong currents that can be life-threatening.
The forecast centre continues to monitor conditions and said it will provide updates as needed.
A flood watch, according to the province, means river levels are rising and will approach or may exceed bankfull. Flooding of areas adjacent to affected rivers could also occur.
Residents are directed to PreparedBC for information on flood safety and preparedness.
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