BC Hydro will experience some changes in its operations this year due to construction at Mica Dam, but a repeat of last year's flood management conditions is considered "very unlikely, barring unforeseen extreme rainfall events."
According to spokesperson Jen Walker-Larsen, water run-off from the mountains throughout the Columbia Basin is expected to be near normal in 2013. However, BC Hydro will be limiting power generation at Mica Dam for most of the summer due to ongoing construction and maintenance work.
"As a result, outflows from Mica and downstream Revelstoke dams are expected to be lower than normal from July through September," she said in an e-mail.
The Arrow Lakes Reservoir is re-filling earlier than normal due to a warmer than average spring and recent heavy rains. The reservoir is expected to be peak at close to full pool sometime in late June or early July. Because of the reduced inflows from Mica and Revelstoke, Arrow Lakes will likely be lower than usual in late summer. The forecast water level for August/September is close to the current water level.
There will be a little spilling from the Revelstoke Dam this summer to help maintain water levels on Lake Revelstoke.
The Kinbasket Reservoir was drawn down 10 feet lower than normal to prepare for the reduced generation at the Mica Dam. It is expected to reach full pool in September.