Blustery day on the way for Okanagan, Kamloops
by Howard Alexander · iNFOnews.caThe potential for a late season thunderstorm Wednesday has Environment Canada warning of very strong wind gust and heavy downpours.
The weather office has issued a special weather statement as a heads up for those living in a large area of the southern Interior including the Okanagan, Similkameen, Shuswap, North and South Thompson, Nicola, Columbia and Kootenay regions.
The vigorous cold front will cross the province, Sept 25, bringing very strong winds aloft and an unstable airmass that will create the conditions for strong winds, heavy showers and possibly thunderstorms.
The storm is expected to make its way into areas east of Golden and Creston towards the Alberta border Wednesday night, the statement says.
“Any thunderstorms that do develop will likely form a line resulting in the potential for repeated heavy downpours from multiple thunderstorms over the same area resulting in locally heavy rainfall totals,” the statement reads.
Meteorologists warn that high winds can damage roof shingles and windows, and falling tree branches can knock out power.
“Motorists, especially in high profile vehicles, may expect hazardous driving conditions on highways subject to strong cross winds,” the statement reads. “Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Watch for possible washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts.”