As of tonight, Aug. 18, Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Howe Sound, which includes Squamish. Environment Canada issues such "watches" when atmospheric conditions could lead to thunderstorms that may result in hail, damaging winds or torrential rainfall.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch: What to Expect

"Conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain," the warning reads. The agency warns that strong winds can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles.

Safety Precautions During Severe Thunderstorms

If we get heavy downpours, they can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Environment Canada warns that water-related activities may be unsafe due to violent and sudden gusts of wind over bodies of water.

Intense lightning is likely with any thunderstorm. Lightning seems to already be hitting the Sunshine Coast, according to the app My Lightning Tracker, which showed more than a dozen strikes in that area. "Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors," the release states. Two to three people every year are killed by lightning in Canada, and about 80 are injured.

Staying Informed

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