Drinking water caution for those impacted by flooding

It’s that time of year when the weather has warmed up and the snowpack is rapidly melting, causing some localized flooding in communities across Interior Health. 

Flooding causes devastation to infrastructure, municipal and personal property, but it can also have major health implications, such as contaminated water. Residents impacted by flooding need to be aware of the potential risks associated with drinking water at this time. 

“Roaring streams and high water in the spring are normal for folks in the B.C. interior, but our changing climate is resulting in increased frequency and severity of flooding in our region,” says Interior Health’s Manager of Drinking Water Systems Program Ivor Norlin. “Knowing where your water comes from and who provides it to your home is important for ensuring you’re quickly informed of possible drinking water health hazards.”

Stories@IH

Read our latest stories

3 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Learn how to stay safe in B.C. waters when blue-green algae blooms, or cyanobacteria, are present.

4 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Moved by her son's health journey, Alana Haynes found her calling helping young patients at Kelowna General Hospital feel more at ease and parents reassured.

5 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Cheryl Whittleton’s 40-year IH career spans bedside care to senior leadership, grounded in compassion and a commitment to strengthening the future of nursing.

3 Minute Read
Community & Culture

What started as a travel plan quickly became something more permanent for Stasia Ruskie, a nurse from the U.S. who had always wanted to explore B.C..

3 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Inspired by the strength and openness needed to care for families during one of life’s most transformative moments, Rachel pursued a career in health care.

3 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Hantavirus is a rare but serious disease caused by inhaling hantaviruses in old rodent droppings or urine. Learn how to protect yourself while cleaning.

STAY CONNECTED

Receive news, alerts, public service announcements and articles right to your inbox.

mail