Thunderstorms, strong winds expected on three highways north, east of Hope today

HOPE — Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement indicating three highways north and east of Hope will face widespread gusty winds and the risk of thunderstorms later today.

According to a special weather statement posted Thursday (Aug. 17) by the federal weather agency, storm conditions are expected to pass through the southern Interior accompanied by strong winds and the likelihood of thunderstorms Thursday afternoon and evening.

Environment Canada indicates strong, gusty winds will shift from southwest to northwest and increase the risk of dry lightning. It says instability along the cold front may lead to the development of thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. The main hazard will be localized severe winds with speeds up to or above 70 km/h and dry lightning (lightning that comes with little or no rain). Drought-stricken trees will be more susceptible to winds, it says.

Specific highway alerts have been issued for the Coquihalla between Hope and Merritt, Crowsnest (Hwy. 3) between Hope and Princeton via Allison Pass, and the Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C) between Merritt and Kelowna.