BC Hydro is issuing a public safety advisory for higher flows within the Elk Falls Canyon through Monday.

The increased flows are required as part of maintenance work on one of the John Hart generating units.

Temporary safety signage is in place. During this time, people are asked to stay away from the Elk Falls Canyon and the Campbell River water flow.

Meanwhile, Yesterday’s peak hourly inflow into Comox Lake Reservoir was approximately 560 m3/s, and the daily average inflow is forecast to be approximately 380 m3/s.

The forecast for the remainder of the week is for inflows to slowly reduce but stay above normal.

In response to the high inflows, crews increased spill from Comox Dam to 100 m3/s early Sunday morning and up to 150 m3/s yesterday.

To maintain operational flexibility, BC Hydro aims to keep the reservoir water level below 134.4 m at this time of year for flood risk management.

Temporary safety signage remains in place, and the public is reminded to stay away from the high and dangerous flow along all sections of the Puntledge River through Friday - and again - the Elk Falls Canyon and the Campbell River water flow through Monday.