The month of June brought warmer temperatures than usual to the Thompson-Okanagan region, with particularly dry conditions in the Okanagan. According to Environment Canada, the average temperature for the month was 2 to 3 degrees above normal, making it one of the warmest Junes on record.
In Kelowna, the average temperature for the month was 20.2 degrees Celsius, which is 2.5 degrees above the normal average of 17.7 degrees. This is the second warmest June on record for the city, with the warmest being in 2015 when the average temperature was 20.4 degrees.
Other cities in the region also experienced above-average temperatures, with Penticton recording an average of 21.1 degrees (2.6 degrees above normal), Vernon at 19.8 degrees (2.3 degrees above normal), and Kamloops at 22.1 degrees (2.2 degrees above normal).
In addition to the warmer temperatures, the region also saw below-average precipitation levels, particularly in the Okanagan. Kelowna received only 8.4 millimeters of rain in June, which is significantly lower than the normal average of 40.6 millimeters. This makes it the fourth driest June on record for the city.
Penticton also saw a significant decrease in rainfall, with only 4.4 millimeters recorded compared to the normal average of 33.6 millimeters. Vernon and Kamloops also experienced drier conditions, with 14.2 millimeters and 9.6 millimeters of rain respectively, well below their normal averages.
These dry conditions have raised concerns for farmers and residents in the region, as the lack of rain can have a negative impact on crops and water supply. The dry weather has also increased the risk of wildfires, with several small fires already being reported in the area.
While the warm temperatures and dry conditions may be enjoyable for some, it is important to remember the potential consequences and to take precautions to prevent wildfires and conserve water. As we head into the summer months, it is crucial to stay informed and prepared for any potential weather changes.
