Flood Watch issued for Bulkley River around Smithers, B.C.

The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issue a Flood Watch for the Bulkley River in northwestern British Columbia.

"The Bulkley River has experienced rising flows over the past several days due to warmer weather and increased snow melt rates," said thenotice issued on Tuesday afternoon.

"An upper ridge of high pressure has settled over northern British Columbia, and this is expected to maintain unseasonably warm temperatures over the region throughout the week," said the notice.

According to thecentre, river levels are expected to keep risingthroughout the week and rivers through the Smithers area, including around Ebenezer Flats, may reach flood stage byWednesday or Thursday.

More significantriver rises are expected into the weekend.

The B.C. River Forecast Centre is also maintaining a High Streamflow Advisory issued Monday for:

• Nautley River near Fort Fraser
• Nechako River at Vanderhoof