Windstorm cracks trees, damages boats across Okanagan
OKANAGAN – A windstorm left a trail of snapped trees and damaged boats behind as it blew through the Okanagan last night.
Winds gusted up to more than 40 km/ h in parts of Kelowna, Vernon and Penticton yesterday evening, Aug. 21, and left quite a mess behind.
The Kelowna Yacht Club appears to have suffered some of the worst damage, with boats coming untethered and docks breaking.
“The breakwater was badly damaged and several boats broke away from the docks. A team of volunteers and staff worked throughout the night to secure as many as possible and the recovery is ongoing,” the yacht club says in a media release.
Club members are advised to assess any damages and meet with their insurance adjusters if needed. They are also told to take additional safety precautions while visiting the basin.
Meanwhile, numerous trees came down in the North Okanagan and there are reports of falling branches damaging homes.
Strong winds were also a concern for firefighters battling a pair of wildfires in West Kelowna and Okanagan Falls overnight.
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