Okanagan could see severe thunderstorms

The Okanagan could be in for a summer storm this afternoon.

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the North, Central and South Okanagan, along with most of the Southern Interior, stretching as far north as the Stuart-Nechako area.

The weather agency says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

“Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when atmospheric conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that could produce one or more of the following: large hail, damaging winds, torrential rainfall,” the advisory stated.

Environment Canad is forecasting a 60 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms with a risk of a severe thunderstorm this afternoon and evening for the North and Central Okanagan.

The storms could stir up what has been a relatively quiet wildfire season so far.

Lightning strikes have been responsible for 53 per cent of the 594 wildfires so far this season in B.C.. according to the BC Wildfire Service.