Canada Day fireworks show in Kamloops a go, but weather may still play spoilsport

“It could be minute-by-minute right up to the start of the fireworks show but that is where relying on those qualified and trained people is so important.”

Environment Canada is currently calling for showers and cooler temperatures in the days leading up to Canada Day.

“When you get these upper lows that stall over the region, the upper trough, I think the chance of rain is going to be there even though it doesn’t specifically say on the forecast for July 1 at this point,” meteorologist Matt Loney said, as he encouraged people to have backup plans if they’re spending Canada Day outdoors.

Added Uzeloc of the forecast, “If it’s too wet, I’m not worried about that. It’s the wind.”

Uzeloc is also reminding Kamloopsians to not set off their own fireworks. A ban on the sale and use of fireworks in Kamloops took effect in February and those who are caught could be fined $1,000 per offence.

“If you shoot off five fireworks and we prove that it is you, that could be $5,000 in tickets you’re going to get,” Uzeloc said. “You could be responsible for the costs of the whole response, so if you shoot off fireworks and you – god forbid – cause a structure fire, if KFR has to come with multiple resources and we’re there for three hours, you’re going to get the bill for the whole response as well.”

After years of COVID cancellations, wildfire-related postponements and a drone light show in 2024, Canada Day fireworks returned last year. This year’s show is expected to begin around 9:30 p.m. and the city says the best views will be on the Rivers Trail in Riverside Park.

“I encourage everybody to come down and see them done professionally,” Uzeloc said. “Don’t go out and do them yourself because you take the risk of starting something dangerous. Even with the little bit of rain we’re supposed to get, it’s still not going to saturate the ground. Everything is going to be dry very quickly again.”

“Don’t take the chance. It’s just not worth it.”

More information about this year’s Canada Day festivities in Kamloops can be found here.

by Victor Kaisar

Canada Day fireworks show in Kamloops a go, but weather may still play spoilsport

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