BC Hydro is warning that water flows through Elk Falls Canyon and the Campbell River have increased from four cubic metres per second to about 90 cubic metres per second.
The increase is in anticipation of above-normal inflows.
The utility announced the change in a statement issued late Tuesday, Jan. 27.
“An atmospheric river bringing moderate to heavy precipitation is forecast from Wednesday through Friday, with the potential for more wet weather to follow along with seasonally warm temperatures, resulting in sustained above-normal inflows — about three times normal — over the next seven to 10 days,” the statement said.
According to the statement, water levels in the Upper Campbell reservoir, also known as Buttle Lake, are currently at 220.0 metres. BC Hydro’s target is to keep the reservoir below 220.5 metres for flood-risk management.
“BC Hydro continues to generally run the three dams and generating stations in tandem,” the statement said. “We are releasing extra water throughout the Campbell River system and this evening will increase the total downstream water discharge from our John Hart facilities from about 125 cubic metres per second to 210 cubic metres per second.”
The statement said spill down Elk Falls Canyon will increase from four cubic metres per second to about 90 cubic metres per second.
“We expect to maintain increased spill down Elk Falls Canyon through Feb. 10, and spill volume may range between 40 cubic metres per second and 120 cubic metres per second, depending on actual inflows into the Campbell River system,” the statement said.
The Crown corporation is advising residents to stay away from Elk Falls Canyon and the Campbell River and said temporary safety signage has been posted along the river.
The falls can still be safely observed from the Elk Falls suspension bridge.
