Environment Canada issues Special Weather Statement for BC Interior, including West Kootenay, Boundary
By Lone Sheep Publishing
Environment Canada is urging the general public to be aware of their surroundings thanks to a low pressure system that is expected to bring strong, gusty winds shifting from southwest to northwest along with a risk of dry lightning and continued heat to the southern interior.
The Special Weather Statement by Environment Canada is calling for the system — with widespread gusty wins and the risk of thunderstorms — to move into the Interior of BC, including West Kootenay/Boundary region, Thursday evening and into Frida
“Widespread southwesterly winds of 30 km/h gusting 50 will develop this morning and switch to northwesterly 20 km/h gusting 50 near midday (Central Interior) or overnight and into Friday (southern interior) as a dry cold front passes,” Environment Canada website said.
“Instability along the cold front may lead to the development of thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, The main hazard is localized severe winds with speeds up to or above 70 km/h and dry lightning (lightning that comes with little or no rain).”
Environment Canada said the system is expected to impact an already hazardous wildfire season, with possible new fire starts, risk of breaking tree branches and challenging boating conditions. Drought-stricken trees are more susceptible to winds.
Environment Canada also added highway alerts to a pair of Highway 3 summits — Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass and the Hope-Princeton via Allison Pass.
The overnight low for the West Kootenay is expected to drop to 18C with the high of 30C Friday.
There is also a Smoky Skies Bulletin for the West Kootenay/Boundary region.
“Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations,” Environment Canada said.
“Everyone can take action to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke.”
Environment Canada said people with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke.
“Speak with your health care provider about developing a management plan for wildfire smoke events and maintaining a supply of necessary medications at home and always carrying these medications with you during wildfire season,” Environment Canada said.
The public is urged to tune into the BC Wildfire Service to monitor the latest conditions wildfire conditions.
