BC Hydro is advising the public of higher than normal Puntledge River flows through Monday, February 2.

They are asking the public to stay away from the high and dangerous water flows in all stretches of the Puntledge River.

In a release on Tuesday, BC Hydro said the Comox Lake Reservoir was sitting at 133.5 metres above sea level and around the middle elevation level range. Crews aim to keep the reservoir below 134.4 metres at this time of year for flood risk management.

Moderate to heavy precipitation is expected the rest of the week, with another system bringing light to moderate precipitation Saturday and Sunday resulting in above normal inflows over the next 7-10 days. Inflows are expected to peak Friday and stay above normal in the extended forecast.

To ensure the reservoir has adequate room to absorb anticipated inflows and maintain operational flexibility during storm season, crews increased discharge from the Comox Dam last night from about 42 cubic metres per second (m3/s) to approximately 60 m3/s.

Depending on actual inflows, spill may be further increased to 80 m3/s this weekend.

BC Hydro says the increased flows will provide a recreational opportunity for expert kayakers; however, the wider public is advised to stay away from the river flow.

Temporary safety signage highlighting the risk is in place along the river system.