Smoky skies advisories remain in effect, as does a wind warning issued early this morning July 16.
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July 16, 2017 - 6:26 AM
Environment Canada issued two special weather statements overnight, neither of them very helpful to the wildfires growing across the province.
A cold front that helped fan flames yesterday is expected to continue across much of the province today, bringing more wind and gusts.
"On Sunday the front will move into the Kootenays," Environment Canada says in the statement. "Unsettled conditions in the wake of the front will produce gusty westerly winds in the afternoon over most regions. Scattered thunderstorms are also expected to develop across much of the Central Interior. Brief showers with strong wind gusts to 70 km/h are possible near thunderstorms as far south as the 100 Mile House, North Thompson and Shuswap regions. There is a slight risk of dry lightning as far south as the South Thompson this afternoon."
Termperatures could drop six to eight degrees before warming again Monday. The weather statement covers the South Thompson, Nicola, Okanagan, Shuswap and North Thompson.
A second statement advises smoky skies could reduce visibility and return poor air quality to the same regions as well nearly the entire interior of B.C. The statement has been in place for days.
Smoke concentrations will vary widely as winds, fire behaviour and temperatures change.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact your health care provider: difficulty in breathing, chest pain or discomfort, and sudden onset of cough or irritation of airways. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, and lung or heart disease.
News from © iNFOnews, 2017