Update: 2:05 p.m.
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the North Okanagan, including Vernon.
Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm capable of producing heavy rain, the agency said at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.
Weather radar has indicated a strong thunderstorm is producing heavy rainfall about 30 km east of Vernon and 10 km east of Lumby on Highway 6. This thunderstorm is moving eastwards along the highway at 20 km/h.
“Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors,” Environment Canada said.
Meanwhile, a severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Kelowna. A low-pressure system moving in from the north is expected to cause thunderstorms and lead to 10 to 15 millimetres of rain in a short period of time.
……………………………
Original:
Heavy downpours are expected in the Central and North Okanagan, according to a special weather statement issued by Environment Canada.
Both Vernon and Kelowna will be affected by an air mass which Environment Canada says will become increasingly unstable this afternoon. The weather system caused by a low-pressure system moving in from the north is expected to cause thunderstorms and drop 10 to 15 millimetres of rain in a short period of time.
Read More: Mayor Basran gives thumbs up to tourism in Kelowna
Read More: Kelowna officer at centre of punch-throwing arrest also faced 2018 complaint probe
Severe thunderstorm watches and warnings may be issued later today. The weather statement notes that 15 mm of rain in an hour warrants a rainfall warning in the area, and this is enough to cause localized flooding, particularly on sloping terrain.
jim.elliot@saobserver.net
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter