There might be a bit of relief in sight for firefighters as rain showers are in the forecast for the Central Okanagan. However, those showers come with lightning.
Just a few of the locations which reported lightning strikes overnight (Photo Credit: Environment Canada)
While the chance of showers is only 30 per cent for Wednesday, a small amount of rain fell overnight on the valley and was followed by thunder and lightning. According to Environment Canada, several lightning strikes have been reported both north of Kamloops and south of Kelowna. Around 4:00 a.m. Wednesday morning thunder and lightning were experienced in Kelowna which could mean more wildfires may pop up later in the morning or on Thursday.
There is a small amount of rain in the forecast for Wednesday (Photo Credit: KelownaNow.com)
Wednesday’s weather forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with a risk of thunderstorms and highs reaching around 28 degrees. According to the BC Wildfire Service, firefighters worked overnight to try and contain the Westside Road wildfire, which has grown to more than 430 hectares in size. Fire activity steadily increased on Tuesday and the fire is currently not contained. The Kamloops Fire Centre has responded to 50 new fires since Sunday, 43 of which have been lightning-caused.
The Westside Road wildfire continued to rage overnight on Tuesday (Photo Credit: Shawn Talbot Photography/Contributed)
An evacuation order remains in effect for 70 properties in the area, and according to officials, no property has been lost a result of the fast-moving wildfire. If you see smoke, flames, or a contravention of the fire prohibitions in place, please call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on your cell.
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