FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Environment Canada has issued ‘Yellow Severe Thunderstorm Watches’ across parts of Northeast B.C., warning that conditions are favourable for storms capable of producing strong wind gusts, hail and heavy rainfall.
The watches are in effect for both the North and South Peace Regions, including Fort St. John and Dawson Creek, with officials warning the storms could develop through Tuesday evening.
According to the alert, rapidly changing conditions could lead to difficult driving conditions, particularly in areas hit by heavy rain or hail.
Residents are being reminded to seek shelter when thunder is heard, as lightning poses a serious risk.
Environment Canada says some areas could see rainfall totals of 10 to 15 millimetres during the storms, along with wind gusts reaching up to 40 kilometres per hour.
Unsettled conditions for Canada Day
Showers and a continued risk of thunderstorms are expected to persist into Wednesday, although conditions are forecast to gradually improve later in the day.
The forecast calls for showers ending late Wednesday morning, followed by a mix of sun and cloud, with a chance of additional afternoon thunderstorms across the Peace Region.
Temperatures are expected to reach a high of around 19 C in both Dawson Creek and Fort St. John, slightly below seasonal norms for early July.
While the chance of precipitation decreases by the afternoon, periods of sunshine are expected to mix with lingering cloud cover, meaning outdoor celebrations could see variable weather throughout the day.
Improved weather later in the week
The extended forecast shows a return to more stable and sunny conditions beginning Thursday, with temperatures climbing into the low 20s heading into the weekend.
Environment Canada is urging residents to continue monitoring forecasts and alerts as conditions can change quickly during severe weather events.