British Columbia

Evacuation order issued for 11 Okanagan homes

Rising Okanagan Lake water levels have caused an evacuation order for 11 homes on Naramata's Mill Road.

Regional district says Okanagan Lake high enough to wash out Mill Road, the only road access to the properties

The turnoff for Mill Road from 4th Street in Naramata. Rising water levels in Okanagan Lake have caused an evacuation order in the area. (Google Streetview)

Eleven Naramata homes on Mill Road have been ordered evacuated as a state of local emergency has been declared.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen says Okanagan Lake is high enough to wash out Mill Road, the only road access to the 11 homes.

"Before the wave action actually overtakes it we want to make sure that people have the opportunity to remove themselves from their homes," said RDOS spokesperson Zoe Kirk.

A list of affected homes can be found here.

Residents are asked to report to the RDOS Emergency Operations Reception Centre at 101 Martin Street, Penticton, or call RDOS Emergency Support Services at 250-809-6561 or 1-877-611-3737.

The RDOS says the Naramata Fire Department was sent to the area and crews are expected to evaluate the situation Friday morning.

The district also reports a water main in the area has been exposed, requiring a shut-off. Homes north of 4395 Mill Road will be without water until further notice.

With files from Brady Strachan.