OKOTOKS, Alta - As heavy rain persists and is expected to continue well into Wednesday, Foothills County has upgraded the flood watch for the Highwood River to a flood warning.
According to a press release from the County, current forecasts predict 90 to 150 mm of rain for the Bow River Basin and 100 to 130 mm of rain for the Highwood River Basin. The warning is in effect for the Highwood mainstem from the Town of High River to the Bow River confluence.
A flood warning is issued when rising stream levels will result in flooding of areas adjacent to the streams affected, according to the County. Anyone close to the river should take appropriate measure to avoid flood damage.
Fish Creek is still under a flood watch at this time, meaning that stream levels are rising and will approach or exceed the bank. Flooding of areas adjacent to these streams may occur.
The Highwood River Basin, excluding the mainstem between the Town of High River and the Bow River confluence, is also under a high streamflow advisory.
At this time, evacuation close to the effected areas is strictly voluntary and at one's own discretion. Those choosing not to voluntarily evacuate are encouraged to prepare for such by building an emergency kit. For more information on how to do so, visit Build an emergency kit | Alberta.ca.
Sandbags can be delivered to residents by public works per their request. To acquire sandbags, County residents are asked to call 403-652-2390. Residents are responsible for filling and placing the sandbags; this work will not be done by the County.
The Town of Okotoks is also taking precautions following the declaration of a high streamflow advisory for the Sheep River. Town staff may pre-deploy sandbags and pumps in low-lying locations throughout town.
The Town of Okotoks said it is continuing to monitor the situation closely and while the Sheep River has recently showed a small increase in flow due to seasonal snowpack melt and rain showers, river flows are still normal for this time of year.
Residents are advised to follow Foothills County social media or visit www.foothillscountyAB.ca as well as www.okotoks.ca for updates throughout this rainfall event.
