Localized thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected across the Okanagan Valley this evening. (File photo)

Localized thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected across the Okanagan Valley this evening. (File photo)

Weather warning calls for gusty winds in the Okanagan and Shuswap

Localized thunderstorms and snow on mountain passes are also expected.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the Okanagan and Shuswap as strong wind gusts are expected early this evening.

According to Environment Canada a cold front is approaching the B.C. coast and it is expected to sweep over the Southern Interior early this evening. The weather system is expected to bring brief but strong gusts of wind as well as isolated thunderstorms.

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Winds will be strongest in the Southern Okanagan Valley including Penticton where gusts from the west are expected to reach 80 km/h. Brief, heavy downpours and isolated thunderstorms are also a possibility.

Gusts in the North Okanagan and Shuswap are expected to come from the southwest and will reach 60 to 70 km/h.

The vigorous cold front is expected to drop flurries on the high-elevation highway routes in the Southern Interior including the Okanagan connector.

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