Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for the City of Kamloops and areas west, as the forecast is calling for heavy rain going into this weekend.
The weather agency says between 15 and 25 mm of rain is expected to fall across much of the South Thompson, the Fraser Canyon, and the Pemberton areas on Friday night into Saturday.
It is however calling for as much as 40 mm of rain in some of the areas covered by the special weather statement.
“A low pressure system currently off the Oregon Coast will move inland on Friday then track across southern BC Friday evening,” the weather statement said. “Rain, at times heavy, will begin Friday night then taper off to a few showers on Saturday.”
The area covered by the special weather statement as of 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 22, 2024. (Photo via Environment Canada)
Environment Canada says there is an “enhanced risk” of landslides in vulnerable areas especially those that have been affected by recent wildfires.
“The combination of heavy rainfall and potentially unstable soils could trigger landslides or debris flows, posing potential hazards to public safety, infrastructure and natural landscapes,” the statement added.
“The anticipated high precipitation rates over a short duration could lead to water pooling in areas with poor drainage, exacerbating localized flooding concerns. Communities with historically lower drainage capacities should be particularly vigilant.”
At this time, there are no planned highway closures, though drivers are being told to check DriveBC for the latest travel and road conditions.
They’re also urged to keep an eye on the weather forecast weather radar for the latest on rain and thunderstorm activity.
