Thompson-Okanagan residents, especially boaters, should prepare for strong winds on Wednesday night, July 16.
Late Wednesday morning, Environment Canada issued a special weather statement that stretches from nearly Hope and spreads throughout the region. According to the government agency, the Thompson as well as the north and central Okanagan, and even as far east as Cherryville could experience the wind. Currently, the South Okanagan, from Summerland down, as well as Revelstoke are not expected to be impacted.
Drivers who plan on taking some of the major highways in the area should also prepare for the conditions. The statement is in effect for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt and then to Kamloops, the Okanagan Connector from Merritt to West 琉璃神社, and Highway 1 from Ashcroft to Sicamous.
"An upper disturbance will sweep through the Thompson, Nicola, and Okanagan valleys tonight," states Environment Canada. "As the upper disturbance moves through early this evening, winds will shift to northwest and become strong and gusty."
Wind gusts could get up to 70 km/h and some hazards that could occur are:
- Sudden rise in wind and waves;
- Boats may break free from moorings;
- Loose objects may be tossed;
- Utility outages may occur.
"Recreational boaters should be prepared for strong and gusty winds and exercise caution on the lakes," added the government agency.
The conditions are expected to start in the early evening and stop around midnight.
