Communities across the Elk Valley and East Kootenay, including Sparwood, Elkford, and Cranbrook, experienced heavy rainfall and unseasonal snowfall over the weekend as a strong low-pressure weather system moved through southeastern British Columbia and southwestern Alberta.
Rainfall began Friday, June 20, and continued into Sunday, delivering precipitation across the region.
Elkford and Sparwood recorded persistent rainfall, while Cranbrook saw steady showers throughout the weekend.
In higher elevations near Elkford, snow fell on Saturday, June 21, a rare occurrence for late June.
Environment Canada reports that nearby areas in western Alberta saw over 100 millimetres of rain.
In the Kananaskis region, snowfall reached 30 centimetres at Highwood Pass, and up to 201 mm of precipitation was reported in the Kananaskis Valley, though that number remains unofficial.
The storm also brought strong winds, with gusts exceeding 80 km/h in areas like Fort Macleod, Stavely, and Milk River.
While the strongest winds were recorded east of the border, local conditions in the East Kootenay were unsettled, with reduced visibility and surface runoff along roadways.
Road users are reminded to drive with caution as localized flooding, debris, or soft shoulders may still be present.
Motorists are encouraged to check DriveBC for current conditions.
Environment Canada states that precipitation totals may be subject to change as additional data is collected.
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