The River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow advisory for:
- Skeena River including the Bulkley River and surrounding tributaries around Telkwa, Smithers, Hazelton, Kispiox, and Terrace
- Tributaries of the Stikine River, including streams and rivers around Dease Lake and Telegraph Creek
- Liard River including tributaries around Fort Nelson and Highway 97 towards Watson Lake
Steady warming this week is leading to increasing snowmelt rates and river runoff. Temperatures are expected to reach the low-20C range for valley bottom locations on Wednesday. On Thursday and into the weekend, the region is expected to experience more unsettled weather, with the potential for rainfall to add to river runoff.
Current hydrologic modelling is indicating the potential for a period of high flows through the region into the weekend. These forecasts include high-end estimates that there is a risk that flood conditions emerge over the weekend. There is still uncertainty over the weather and river responses into the weekend, and this advisory will be upgraded if required.
The public is advised to stay clear of the fast-flowing rivers and potentially unstable riverbanks during the high-streamflow period. Be prepared and know your hazards.