U.S. kayaker dead after capsizing in wind on B.C.’s Okanagan Lake

WEST KELOWNA — A kayaker has drowned after capsizing in windy conditions on Okanagan Lake in the British Columbia Interior.

West Kelowna RCMP say the accident happened Friday evening, when two kayakers went into the water near the Westbank First Nation beach.

Police say the pair encountered sudden wind conditions on the lake and one went under while trying to swim to shore.

Rescuers on nearby vessels were quickly on the scene and helped one of the kayakers to safety but couldn’t find the other person.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue was able to find the person’s body several hours later.

The victim has been confirmed as an American citizen, and their identity has not been released as next of kin are being notified.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 23, 2026.

The Canadian Press