The heat is on, putting pressure on local water sources as the Okanagan regional drought level dips to level 2.
A drought level 2, means there is increased dryness and a chance of severity of drought, stated the Okanagan Basin Water Board in its first drought bulletin of the year.
About 40 per cent of the province, but specifically the Okanagan, is at a level 2, which came into effect June 12.
This is due to hot and dry weather across B.C., as well as widespread declines in streamflows mostly in the northeast, southeast and central interior. High-elevation snowpack melt has accelerated over the past week, increasing streamflows in some areas, said OBWB.
However, drought conditions from Vernon to Osoyoos vary.
According to the Okanagan Basin Water Board, local water restrictions differ from community to community.
"Because they're set based on the specific water supply and demand right where you live," said OBWB. "Your local water supplier knows best what's needed to keep water flowing for homes, food, fish, and firefighting right where you are."
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"Understanding current conditions and why every drop counts is key to making smart choices this season," said Carmen Weld, OBWB communications manager.
