2026 Drought Update

September 22, 2026 – Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc downgrades water restrictions to Drought Response Level 3.

Recent rain and cooler temperatures have helped ease provincial drought levels to Level 3 in the South Thompson River Basins.

TteS acknowledges and appreciates the efforts of all community members and businesses who played their part in helping to conserve our local water supply and protect the environment. Enhanced water use restrictions introduced in July 2026 effectively reduced IR#1 community-wide water use by 12%.

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc has downgraded its drought response to Level 3 of our Drought Response Plan, allowing normal water use to resume in alignment with the City of Kamloops.

1. No irrigation (sprinkling) permitted on any day between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
   • Even addresses may sprinkle only on even-numbered days.
   • Odd addresses may sprinkle only on odd-numbered days.
2. The preferred time for automated irrigation is 12 a.m. to 7 a.m.

Winter 2026

Conditions in the Southern Interior have improved modestly but remain drought-stressed across much of the region. Long-term concern remains high given forecasts for continued warm conditions and potential for another low snowpack winter. Officials are still urging people to conserve water wherever possible.

TteS will continue to monitor drought conditions over the winter and spring and continue to work closely with the Thompson Okanagan Region Drought Response Team.

Kukwstsétsemc,

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc
TteS Drought Response Team

As per TteS Bylaw 2025-03, Section 4.4.

All British Columbians are responsible for the sustainability of water and aquatic ecosystems. All water users in drought-affected areas are asked to cooperate and contribute to the goal of conservation.