Taste of winter in this week’s Okanagan forecast

KELOWNA – A mixed bag of weather is forecast for the Okanagan this week with rain, snow and even the chance of thunderstorms.

Environment Canada meteorologist Doug Lundquist says a modified arctic front will make its way south into the Okanagan valley tomorrow, Oct. 2, bringing a “quick blast” of cold air and an early taste of winter before moving towards Alberta on Wednesday. Lundquist says temperatures should rebound to near seasonal normals on Wednesday and Thursday.

The frigid arctic air could extend into the South Okanagan tomorrow, with the possibility of temperatures dropping to -1 Celsius overnight, he says.

Okanagan residents can expect showers with a high of 12 C today. Periods of rain will continue through tonight, with between five and 10 mm expected.

Tomorrow the periods of rain will continue, with a risk of thunderstorms, a high of 8 C and snow levels dropping to 1,000 metres by late afternoon. Up to 10 mm of rain is anticipated Tuesday.

On Wednesday, expect a mix of sun and cloud with a temperature of around 13 C.

Thursday, more clouds roll in, with a high of 15 C forecast.

Today, Oct. 1, is the first day for winter driving rules regarding the use of snow tires on some B.C. highways. Lundquist says the Coquihalla and Okanagan Connector could see significant amounts of snow between today and Wednesday morning.

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