The City of Kamloops has made the decision to open its Emergency Operations Centre due to concerns about flooding.

In a video posted online, Kamloops Mayor Ken Christian says the city has made the move to be proactive, while also expressing concerns about possible flooding this week.

“We do this because we’re concerned about the numbers that we’re receiving from the government in terms of the flow rates on the North Thompson and the South Thompson,” he said.

“We’re concerned about the timing of the peaking of those two rivers. Right now, we anticipate it somewhere around the 1999 flood levels. But that will remain to be seen, dependent on the weather. And the weather doesn’t look that promising for the next few days.”

The latest forecast from Environment Canada does show a storm front moving through the region in the coming days.

But at the same time, Christian does say this move is precautionary.

“[It] will give us access to the province of British Columbia’s resources, and will allow us to react quickly in the event of more serious flooding, he said.

Christian also took time to warn home owners that the city will not be focused on their concerns.

“Our prime responsibility is to protect public property and infrastructure. Unfortunately, private property is the responsibility of those home owners that are affected by flooding. So I would urge you to activate your own flood protection plan at this time.”

Christian has also issued a plea for people to avoid using or gathering around the rivers for the next while.

“I would also urge the public to stay away from the rivers. Certainly they’re a novelty right now in flood, but they’re dangerous. So, no kayaking, no paddle boarding, no boating… let’s just stay away from the rivers we. We are unable to affect a rescue because of the height of the water right now.”