BC Hydro is issuing a public safety advisory to stay away from the higher flows down Barber鈥檚 Hole and Nymph Falls section of the Puntledge River beginning Oct. 31, when we increase discharge from the Comox Dam from about 13 cubic metres per second (m3/s) up to 30 (m3/s). Safety signage along the river is in place highlighting the risk.

Water inflows from the successive storms in the past two weeks provided a needed recovery in water storage following a dry summer. Cumulative precipitation for the month of October is trending 120% above normal where the majority of inflows came in the second half of October. The short term forecast has near normal inflows for this time of year.

The Comox Lake Reservoir water level is currently at 133.7 metres above sea level and rising. It increased from an elevation of 131.7 metres on Oct. 18. The generating station will remain out of service for equipment upgrades through early to mid-November with no water passing through the powerhouse until the unit is back in service. Moderate precipitation is expected this weekend and early next week, and the reservoir is expected to continue to rise. Water begins to spill over the Comox Dam at 135.33 metres. BC Hydro generally likes to keep the reservoir water level below 134.4 metres during storm season for flood risk management operational flexibility.

To ensure we have adequate room to absorb anticipated inflows and maintain operational flexibility during storm season, tomorrow BC Hydro will increase discharge from the Comox Dam from about 13 (m3/s) to as high as 30 (m3/s). Please stay away from the higher flows down Barber鈥檚 Hole and Nymph Falls section of the Puntledge River.