File photo (Image credit: CFJC Today).

By Aaron Schulze

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

Severe thunderstorm watch in effect for Kamloops and area, including the Coquihalla Highway

Jun 20, 2025 | 5:07 AM

UPDATE (10:00 a.m.): In an additional special weather statement, Environment Canada says the the Fraser Canyon, Nicola, Shuswap and South Thompson regions can expect 20 to 40 millimetres of rainfall between Friday afternoon and Saturday afternoon.

EARLIER: KAMLOOPS — A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for Kamloops and the surrounding area.

Environment Canada issued the weather alert for the Coquihalla Highway from Kamloops to Merritt, along with the Fraser Canyon, Nicola, Shuswap and South Thompson regions early Friday (June 20) morning.

The weather agency says an “upper disturbance” will settle over southern B.C., where widespread showers and strong thunderstorms are expected Friday afternoon and evening.

“Because of the convective nature of the system, showers will be widespread, and areas where thunderstorms develop will only further enhance precipitation rates,” Environment Canada states.

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The thunderstorm threat is expected to diminish Friday night. Once that happens, Environment Canada says moderate rainfall will persist into Saturday, with local amounts of up to 25 millimetres.

The weather agency warns that sudden heavy downpours may cause localized flooding and water pooling. Additionally, debris flows and landslides may come down from areas burned by fire.

Motorists are asked not to drive through flooded roadways, and to prepare to have visibility reduced amidst heavy rain.

Residents are asked to go indoors when they hear the sound of thunder.

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms that are capable of producing damaging hail, rain or wind.