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Lightning strike caught on camera in Similkameen

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Okanagan-Similkameen
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BSquakin (Brandon) Squakin captured this lightning strike in Hedley on Sunday afternoon, June 5. (BSquakin photo)

A lightning strike in Hedley was captured by local photographer Brandon Squakin on Sunday afternoon (June 5).

Environment Canada had issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Okanagan and Similkameen for that weekend, but the warning was called off in the Okanagan by late Saturday.

For Similkameen, the Hedley Museum reports the storm thunder clapped loudly through the valley on Sunday.

“The lightning was so intense, it lit up bright red/orange as it made contact with the ground … up and down the valley the thunder was heard,” said the Hedley Museum.

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Central, North and South Okanagan, including Kelowna, Vernon and Penticton for Friday, June 3.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing heavy rain,” Environment Canada said on its weather website Friday. “Hail is also possible. Strong wind gusts are also possible. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.

The government agency warns residents that lightning kills and injures Canadians every year.

“Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”

READ MORE: Severe thunderstorm watch

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Monique Tamminga

About the Author: Monique Tamminga

Monique brings 20 years of award-winning journalism experience to the role of editor at the Penticton Western News. Of those years, 17 were spent working as a senior reporter and acting editor with the Langley Advance Times.
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