UPDATE: Flash flooding at Cache Creek

8:28 P.M., MAY 23, 2015

UPDATE: The highway has reopened. Drive B.C. recommends using caution in the area still.

6:59 P.M., MAY 23, 2015

CACHE CREEK – A severe thunderstorm tracking through the Interior dropped hail and lots of rain on Cache Creek this afternoon, resulting in flash flooding that has closed down the highway.

Major flooding has hit Cache Creek, carrying mud across roads, yards and parking lots and flooding homes and businesses. According to unconfirmed reports on social media, some residents are having to leave their homes due to the flooding.

Drive B.C. reports Highway 1 is closed in both directions through town.

The Kamloops Search and Rescue swift water rescue team has been deployed to the area to offer help as needed. Search Manager Alan Hobler says there are vehicles caught in the flooding, but no people are needing rescue as of right now.

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the South Thompson region. The weather office says meteorologists are currently tracking a slow moving severe thunderstorm near Spences Bridge that is capable of producing hail and heavy rain.

A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for the rest of the South Thompson region as well as the Nicola region. Environment Canada notes a line of strong thunderstorms has developed throughout these regions and carry the potential for hail, intense lightning, strong wind gusts and heavy rain.

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