Boat launches closed

Water levels rose another six inches on Wasa Lake yesterday (June 28) and with the Canada Day long weekend looming, the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is seeking the public’s cooperation in keeping boats off the lake.

“The water is literally lapping at the door of some homes and cabins. In other areas, residents have spent hours and hours sandbagging to protect their homes and our concern is that the wake and rough waters caused by boats could not only increase water in the affected homes, but knock down the sandbags that have been so carefully placed,” explained Information Officer, Loree Duczek. “BC Parks has closed the boat launches at the Lake and we are urging property owners and visitors to leave their boats parked this weekend.”

A 40-member B.C. Forestry Crew worked through the day again yesterday and will be back in the community right through the weekend filling and placing sandbags. The arrival of an automatic sandbagger has helped increase those efforts.

“Since Tuesday evening, we’ve had approximately 15,000 sand bags and 18 loads of sand delivered to the Wasa Community Hall to assist with flood efforts,” adds Duczek.

Water levels could continue to rise for four to seven more days.

Approximately 28 lakefront properties are currently being affected by flood waters. The highest impact is at the south end.

Anyone in the Wasa area wishing to receive email updates can email [email protected] and request to be added to the Wasa Mail Group.

e-KNOW

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