Thunderstorm watch issued for much of the Okanagan
Environment Canada has issued a warning about the high likelihood of severe thunderstorms today, Aug. 18.
“Conditions are favourable for the development of dangerous thunderstorms that may be capable of producing damaging wind gusts and heavy rain,” the warning says.
The areas affected include the Central and North Okanagan and the Shuswap, including Kelowna and Vernon.
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“Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds and torrential rainfall,” the warning says.
The warning does not say when the thunderstorms may hit. The Environment Canada forecast indicates there should be sunny skies this morning with it clouding over later this afternoon with a risk of thunderstorms.
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“Very strong wind gusts can damage buildings, down trees and blow large vehicles off the road,” the warning says. “Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors.”
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