Strong wind gusts expected on the Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector

KAMLOOPS — A storm moving into the southern interior is expected to cause challenging driving conditions on mountain highways in the Kamloops area. 

In a special weather statement posted Wednesday (May 13) morning, Environment Canada says strong, southwesterly winds gusting from 60 to 80 km/h will develop early in the afternoon on the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Kamloops and the Okanagan Connector from Merritt to Kelowna. 

The weather agency notes driving conditions may be especially challenging for tall vehicles and trucks. The advisory is due to a vigorous trough that will cross the southern interior Wednesday. 

Winds are expected to ease to moderate gusts by midnight. Environment Canada notes that weather in the mountains can change suddenly, resulting in hazardous driving conditions.