Thunderstorms are expected to roll through the valley today and tomorrow, bringing upwards of 50 mm of rain.
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the entire Okanagan, advising of locally heavy rain and thunderstorms.
“A low pressure system crossing the British Columbia Interior will create heavy rain and thunderstorms today and Thursday,” reads the warning. “The thunderstorms may generate bursts of extremely heavy rain with local amounts of 25 to 50 millimetres in a few hours or less. Short duration heavy rainfalls can lead to rapid rises in smaller creek systems and localized minor flooding. Thunderstorms will also produce frequent lightning, gusty winds, and hail.”
The thunderstorms will approach from the south but these storms are small-scale weather systems that defy early prediction. The development and specific path of a rapidly developing thunderstorm is apparent on satellite and radar imagery just a few hours in advance.
The public is advised to monitor future forecasts and warnings as warnings may be required or extended.
Please monitor the latest forecasts and warnings from Environment Canada at www.weatheroffice.gc.ca.
Showers are expected to begin this afternoon in Vernon with a risk of a thunderstorm late this afternoon, bringing five to 10 mm of rain. The system could continue overnight. But then showers are expected to end early in the evening Thursday. Highs of 24 and 20 for today and tomorrow, respectively, are anticipated.
The mercury will continue to rise leading up and over the weekend. Friday is calling for a high of 25, Saturday could reach 29 and Sunday may make it to 31. Monday and Tuesday are also expected to be in the low 30s.
