Hamill Creek Logjam

August 22, 2024

A logjam in Hamill Creek (North end of Kootenay Lake near the community of Argenta in Electoral Area D) has been identified approximately 1.25 km up from the Hamill Creek Bridge. The logjam appears to have been in place since before the 2024 Lavina Complex wildifre, but additional fresh logs have been introduced to the logjam in recent weeks.

Based on the assessment of provincial geo technical experts, this logjam has the potential to release catastrophically, causing an outburst flood on the Hamill Creek fan. However, logjams such as this occur frequently in natural systems, and can often be stable for many years. The hazard will be evaluated as part of the post wildfire natural hazard analysis process that is underway for the Argenta Creek wildfire, and residents can expect additional information on the hazard as well in the coming weeks. In the meantime, the Province will continue to monitor the logjam using aerial imagery and will inform residents of any significant changes.

If you notice a sudden abnormal change in the flow pattern, large unnatural variations in the water levels of the creek, or abnormally dirty water, move away from the creek channel and call the Provincial Emergency Coordinator Centre at 1.800.663.3456.

There is no recommendation at this time for an Evacuation Alert or Order. If you have any further questions, contact the RDCK Emergency Operations Centre at 250.352.7701.

The content on this page was last updated August 23 2024 at 3:49 AM

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