2025 Drought Bulletin

Sept. 4, 2025 | Issue 6

Hot Temperatures Increase Drought Rating

As of September 4, 2025, the Province of B.C. has raised the Okanagan's drought level back to Level 2 due to recent hot and dry conditions.


Conditions remain challenging in neighboring regions, with the Nicola and Similkameen Valleys at Drought Level 3 and 4, respectively.


The forecast predicts little to no precipitation and rising temperatures in the coming days, which will likely worsen drought conditions. With low flows and increased water temperatures in most river systems, it is crucial that we all continue to practice water conservation. Water is vital for both our farmers and fish migration at this pivotal time.


Protect Fish! During the fall and winter months, please remember to give salmon their space. From September to May, our local rivers and creeks become vital spawning grounds and nurseries for salmon. The fragile eggs and tiny fish develop and hide in the gravel, making them extremely vulnerable.


To protect these sensitive habitats, please stay clear of river and creek banks. Keep pets away from the water, and avoid throwing sticks, rocks, or food into the water. Disturbing the banks or the water can harm the developing fish and damage the very environment they need to survive.


Remember, the most important thing you can do is follow your local watering restrictions. This simple action makes a big difference for your community and for the entire watershed.

Don't Guess, Check Your Local Watering Restrictions!


Watering restrictions can vary across the Okanagan. It is essential to check for accurate, locally relevant information from your specific water supplier.


They are the best source for guidance on how to conserve water for homes, agriculture, aquatic life, and firefighting in your area. Don't get caught off guard!


Below, we've provided a list of links to help you find your local restrictions. If your community isn't listed below, you can find a full list of water providers in the Okanagan at MakeWaterWork.ca.

Location

Current watering restrictions

Learn more

Greater Vernon Area

Normal — Up to 3 days a week as per your address, no watering on Sundays, no sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Visit the Greater Vernon Water Restrictions page here.

Kelowna

Normal — Up to 3 days a week as per your address, no watering on Mondays, no sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Visit the City of Kelowna Water Restrictions page here.

Lake Country

Stage 1 — Up to 3 days a week, no sprinklers between 6 a.m. and midnight.

Visit the District of Lake Country's Water Conservation Page here.

West Kelowna

Stage 2 — Even numbered addresses water Saturday and Tuesday, odd numbered addresses water Sunday and Wednesday, only water between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Visit the City of West Kelowna's Watering Regulations and Conservation Page here.

Peachland

Stage 2 — Even numbered addresses water Saturday and Tuesday, odd numbered addresses water Sunday and Wednesday, no watering between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Visit the District of Peachland's Conserving Water Page here.

Summerland

Stage 2— 2 days a week determined by your address, no watering on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays, no sprinklers between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Visit the District of Summerland's Water Restrictions page here.

Penticton

Stage 1 — Up to 3 days a week as per your address, no watering on Mondays, no sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Visit the City of Penticton's Water Restrictions page here.

Osoyoos

Stage 2— 2 days a week determined by your zone location, no watering on Saturdays, no sprinklers between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Visit the City of Osoyoos Water Restrictions page here.

RDNO

Varied stages depending on the Water Utility, please visit the link to learn more.

Visit the RDNO's Water Restrictions page here.

RDCO

Stage 3 — Even numbered addresses water Saturdays only, odd numbered addresses water Sundays only, only water between 12 a.m. and 6 a.m.

Visit the RDCO's Water Systems Page here.

RDOS

Varied stages depending on the Electoral Area, please visit the link to learn more.

Visit the RDOS' Water Restrictions page here.

Regional Drought Outlook - The Okanagan is at a LEVEL 2


To improve clarity and consistency in interpreting the meaning of drought levels, the B.C. government updated the definition of drought levels for 2025, while maintaining the same six-level rating scale. Read more about that here.

Don't forget to Take the Pledge!


From Armstrong to Osoyoos, Okanagan residents are showing their commitment to a more water-efficient and fire-ready region. Taking the Make Water Work Pledge is a great way to take action!


The winning community will be celebrated at the annual meeting Sept. 5, 2025, and will hold bragging

rights for the year ahead.


Will this be Armstrong’s seventh win in the last decade? This final

day of pledges will let us know.


By adopting water-efficient and FireSmart™ practices, you're helping build a more resilient region while saving money, time, and effort.

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