Severe thunderstorm watch issued across northeast B.C.

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northeastern B.C. residents are being advised to prepare to stay indoors in the event of possible severe thunderstorms.

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued on July 31st for the Peace region and Fort Nelson area by Environment Canada, saying conditions are favourable for the development of storms that could bring large hail, heavy rainfall and strong gusts of wind.

In the event of a storm forming, “when thunder roars, go indoors,” Environment Canada says, claiming lightning strikes kill and injure people across Canada every year.

Additionally, motorists are being urged to drive cautiously in the event of heavy rainfall, which can cause flash flooding and reduced visibility.

The agency’s hourly forecast indicates Fort St. John and Dawson Creek are at risk of thunderstorms until the early hours of the morning on August 1st, while the chance of storms will linger in the Fort Nelson area until 8 a.m. that day.

This comes after Environment Canada also issued a heat warning for the same areas that’s expected to last until the evening on August 1st.