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Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for Okanagan

Environment Canada has issued watch, which includes Vernon
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Heavy downpours

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for the entire Okanagan, including Vernon, according to Environment Canada.

Thunderstorms are expected to develop across the Southern Interior today and there is the potential for some of these storms to become severe. The main concerns are heavy downpours and strong wind gusts, however, large hail is also possible.

Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.

"Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!" states the alert.

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, torrential rainfall.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to pacificstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports to #BCStorm.