The public is being urged to steer clear of the Puntledge River over the next few days.
BC Hydro said beginning tonight they’ll be increasing spill from the Comox Dam from 15 cubic metres per second (m3/s) to around 60 m3/s.
The inflows could increase to 80 m3/s over the weekend, with the flows providing recreational opportunities for kayakers but a potential danger for others.
Precipitation for the month of March is trending to be 135 per cent of normal with inflows into the reservoir being 100 per cent of normal.
The Comox Lake Reservoir level has increased 120 centimeters since March 12 and currently sits 134.3 metres above sea level.
The increased water released from the Comox Dam will help manage the reservoir level to maintain operational flexibility to absorb future storms.
Puntledge River’s Powerhouse has been offline for maintenance since March 10 and is expected to be up-and-running again on April 1.
Safety signage will be placed along the river highlighting the risk to people.
