Fraser Valley under thunderstorm, wind alert as wildfire risk increases

Much of the Fraser Valley, including Hope and Chilliwack, is under a special weather statement Thursday, as strong, gusty winds are expected to hit the region.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) says there is also a risk of dry lightning as high temperatures and dry conditions continue throughout the valley and into the Fraser Canyon.

ECCC is warning of “worsening wildfire conditions, possible new fire starts, risk of breaking tree branches, challenging boating conditions” in the alert.

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Winds of 30 km/h gusting to 50 km/h will develop Thursday morning, the weather service says, adding that the winds will change overnight into Friday due to a dry cold front, increasing possible wildfire activity.

“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),” ECCC said.

The weather service notes that drought-stricken trees will be more susceptible to winds, and could fall over.

Meanwhile, much of the Fraser Canyon, from Hope to Lytton, is under a heat warning as a prolonged heat wave continues in that region.

ECCC says daytime temperatures are expected to hit between 35 Cº and 40 Cº, with overnights not dropping below 18 Cº.

“A robust high-pressure ridge across the southern interior is expected to persist through the end of today. Daytime temperatures significantly above the seasonal norms will coincide with elevated overnight temperatures, providing minimal respite from the heat,” it said.

“Extreme heat affects everyone. The risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and people working or exercising outdoors.”

Weather warnings in place for Interior highways

Meanwhile, highway alerts have been put in place for many major arterials heading into the Interior and Okanagan due to the changing weather conditions.

A special weather statement is also in effect for the Coquihalla Highway, from Hope to Merritt; Highway 3, from Hope to Princeton via Allison Pass; the Okanagan Connector, or Highway 3A, Merritt to Kelowna; and the Trans-Canada Highway, from Eagle Pass to Rogers Pass.

“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),” ECCC said.

The weather service notes that drivers should keep up to date with changing road conditions by checking in with DriveBC.

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