With hot, dry weather sweeping through the Okanagan in July, the B.C. government has moved drought levels in the area up, to level three. 

The move comes after stream flows have been dropping, along with the increase in water temperatures.

In level three, meaning severely dry, serious ecosystems and socio-economic impacts are possible. According to the drought and water scarcity response plan, all level three unauthorized use should be curtailed.

Drought levels are categorized in six levels; zero through five. Zero means non-drought, with five being exceptionally dry.

Water suppliers are likely to impose water restrictions, which can be viewed at

The Okanagan was just moved to level two in mid-July, but the move to three came after weeks of 35 to 40 degree heat with no significant precipitation. 

More information is available at .