Changing weather may bring Kamloops relief from smoky skies

KAMLOOPS – A change in the weather is on the way, and with it, some hope for an improvement in air quality for Kamloops.

Environment Canada meteorologist Ross MacDonald says a stagnant air mass that has been putting a lid on wildfire smoke in Kamloops will begin moving out of the region later today, Aug. 23, with the first of a series of weather systems that will result in an cooler, more active weather pattern over the coming week.

But he cautions, depending on how things line up, regions downstream of the many fires burning in the province could be in line for more smoke because of a northwest flow.

“Things are starting to look better. With these systems there will be more horizontal and vertical mixing of the air. The vertical component is the key to reducing smoke concentration levels,” MacDonald says.

Kamloops can expect a high of 24 Celsius today, with a 60 per cent chance of showers or thunderstorms.

Friday will be cooler with a high of 22 C under smoky skies.

On Saturday and Sunday, expect a 40 per cent chance of rain and highs around 23 C.

Another system crossing the region late Sunday is expected to produce a 60 per cent chance of showers and a high of 20C.

Overnight lows over the weekend are expected to be around 13 C.

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