Showers, cooler temperatures on weekend expected to reduce smoke levels in Okanagan

It’s supposed to be sunny in the Okanagan today, but with air quality meteorologists calling for widespread smoke to return, the sun may be fleeting, if seen at all.

Smoke from multiple wildfires in California, Oregon, and Washington State spread throughout the province and east across Canada this week, but the worst of it remains in British Columbia, particularly on the south coast and southern Interior.

According to The Weather Network, the smoke is also causing poor air quality conditions in several provinces.

In the Okanagan today, Sept. 17, Environment Canada is calling for sunshine with smoky conditions and winds northwest at 20 km/h with an expected high of 25 Celsius and a low of 12 C in Vernon and Kelowna, 14 C in Penticton.

A special air quality statement has been issued for the Okanagan.

Temperatures are expected to begin easing on Friday,  along with a mix of sun and cloud, a 30 per cent chance of showers and more widespread smoke expected.

Friday’s high should reach 23 C with a low of 14 C anticipated.

There is a 60 per cent chance of showers Saturday with a high of 22 C and a low of 12 C expected.

The smoke should lessen considerably with the advancement of a low pressure system off the coast over the weekend.

Clearing skies are expected Sunday, with a high of 21 C and a low of 9 C.

Increasing cloudiness is anticipated Monday, with a high of 21 C and a 30 per cent chance of showers overnight. Monday’s overnight low is expected to dip to 11 C.

Tuesday looks cloudy with a high of 20 C at this point.

There is a 30 per cent chance of showers overnight Tuesday, with a low of 12 C forecast.

The clouds continue Wednesday with a high of 19 C.

Normal temperatures at this time of year in the Okanagan are highs of 19 C and lows of 7 C.

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