Significant work takes place along local streams and creeks to prepare for the annual snowpack melt – known as freshet – that typically occurs from April to July in B.C. Freshet can become a problem when winter snowpacks melt rapidly, overwhelming stream channels and creating floods. The City actively monitors flood indicators and has mitigation plans in place to help mitigate the impact of flooding on buildings, roadways and critical infrastructure.
Get prepared
Flood protection for homes and private property is an owner’s responsibility. The City provides sandbags for homeowners and encourages residents to have necessary supplies and equipment ready to protect their homes. Sand and sandbags are available outside the east entrance to the operations yard located on Pleasant Valley Road.
Before freshet season, residents can take steps to reduce potential of flooding including clearing snow and pooling water away from foundations and making sure soil, walkways and patios slope away from the home.
Homeowners may also be able to moderate risk by purchasing overland flood insurance. Contact your local insurance representative or broker to determine eligibility.
In the event of a flood, stay aware and plan ahead with community notifications from the City of Vernon's Alertable App.