BC Hydro has provided an update on conditions at the Comox Lake Reservoir following several days of rain.

Recent storm activity has raised the reservoir by approximately 1.9 metres since Friday. It is currently sitting at 132.9 metres above sea level. At this time of year, BC Hydro aims to keep the reservoir below 134.4 metres to help manage flood risk.

In an update yesterday, the utility said another series of storms is expected to bring moderate to heavy precipitation through Friday. Inflows into the Comox Lake Reservoir are forecast to remain above normal for the next seven to 10 days.

To ensure the reservoir has enough room to absorb the anticipated inflows and maintain operational flexibility during the storm season, BC Hydro has increased the amount of water being released from the Comox Dam to approximately 90 cubic metres per second.

Depending on inflows, BC Hydro expects to maintain increased releases of between 90 and 120 cubic metres per second through Monday.

The higher flows may provide a recreational opportunity for expert kayakers. However, the wider public is being warned to stay away from all sections of the Puntledge River because of the high and dangerous water levels.

Temporary safety signs have been installed to highlight the risks.