Environment Canada's severe thunderstorm watch for Prince George on Sunday, July 13 has been upgraded to a severe thunderstorm warning.
The storm could produce heavy rain, with the potential for flash flooding and significantly reduced visibility.
The weather agency reported just before 5 p.m. that a powerful thunderstorm located just north of the Nechako River is moving east-southeast at approximately 40 kilometres per hour.
Weather radar confirms the presence of intense downpours associated with the storm. Officials warn that the heavy rain could lead to flash flooding and sudden reductions in visibility.
People are urged to take immediate shelter if the storm approaches. Environment Canada advises those outdoors to protect themselves from potential flying debris and hail.
Severe thunderstorm warnings are issued when storms are either imminent or occurring and are expected to produce damaging wind, hail, or torrential rain.
Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when the risk is elevated for storms that may bring damaging hail, wind or rain. Residents are urged to stay alert and monitor Environment Canada forecasts and warnings.
Showers are expected to continue through Sunday night, with a risk of thunderstorms and between 5 to 10 mm of rain. Winds will become light in the evening with a low of 10 C.
More unsettled weather is forecast for early Monday, with showers ending in the morning and a risk of thunderstorms. Conditions are expected to clear by midday, with a high of 22 C and a moderate UV index of 5.
Clear and sunnier weather is expected to return Tuesday, with highs reaching 26 C.
Environment Canada encourages anyone witnessing severe weather to report it via email at [email protected] or by using the hashtag #BCStorm on X, formerly known as Twitter.
