Kalamalka Lake water advisory issued for Greater Vernon Water customers

The Regional District of North Okanagan, in conjunction with Interior Health, has issued a precautionary water quality advisory for Greater Vernon Water customers supplied by Kalamalka Lake. The advisory follows investigations into high levels of turbidity, which measures water clarity. Current levels have exceeded 3.0 NTU.

Officials suggest the increased turbidity may be linked to historically low lake levels combined with current weather, lake activity, and environmental conditions. While similar issues in the past have been attributed to algae blooms, strong winds, or marl, the exact cause is still under investigation. Because summer water demands are high, authorities cannot temporarily stop drawing water from the lake as they might during cooler months.

Although disinfection levels remain normal and bacterial results are clear, elevated turbidity can interfere with the effectiveness of drinking water treatment. As a precaution, individuals with weakened immune systems or those seeking extra protection are advised to boil water for at least one minute when preparing food, drinking, brushing teeth, or washing produce.