Okanagan Lake is once again proving to be one of the most dangerous bodies of water in British Columbia, as authorities have discovered a second drowning victim within just three days.
The latest incident occurred on Monday close to Kelowna’s City Park, where police found an adult’s body in the lake.
“Currently, our snow is melting quickly, causing streams, rivers, and lakes to fill with cold, swiftly moving water that may contain debris,” remarked Const. Mike Della-Paolera from the Kelowna RCMP.
“It’s a bit risky to be out there during this season.”
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Just two days before, another individual was found deceased at Okanagan Lake near Westside Road in Vernon. Police report that the woman was last seen kayaking and was not wearing a lifejacket when her body was retrieved.
Officials are emphasizing the importance of water safety in light of the anticipated busy and warm summer ahead in the Okanagan.
“We’ve consistently seen that lifejackets and personal flotation devices save lives,” stated Kimiko Hirakida from the Lifesaving Society.
“It’s critical that everyone on your boat is wearing their lifejacket, rather than just having it on board.”
Although temperatures are expected to rise into the 30s this week, officials warn that lake temperatures remain perilously cold, ranging from 13 to 16 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
“When the water is very cold and the air temperature is hot, your body can go into shock,” Hirakida explained. “This may trigger an internal gasp reflex, and you could lose consciousness within seconds.”
The RCMP stated they will be more present on the water this summer, monitoring for impaired boaters, emergencies, and anyone in distress.
“Boating under the influence will be treated the same as driving under the influence,” emphasized Della-Paolera. “We’ll be out there keeping an eye on things.”
According to the Lifesaving Society, 38 drownings were reported in B.C. and the Yukon last year, a number that is expected to increase as the BC Coroners Service finalizes its statistics.
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