Severe Thunderstorm Triggers Flash Flood Risk Along Trans-Canada Highway in Shuswap

June 22, 2025: Heavy rain between Salmon Arm and Sicamous caught on video earlier today

What Happened

Environment Canada issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 6:22 p.m. PDT on Sunday, following reports of heavy rain and lightning in the Shuswap region.

Video recorded at 1:15 p.m. shows torrential rainfall along the Trans-Canada Highway between Salmon Arm and Sicamous. While lightning was also active, it was not captured in the footage.

The thunderstorm system, tracked near Celista in higher terrain, is moving slowly southward at 10 km/h, bringing the risk of flash flooding, debris flows, and sudden visibility loss to low-lying and mountain areas.

Increased Risk in Burn Scar Areas

Officials are especially concerned about the 2023 Bush Creek wildfire burn zone, where loose soil and steep terrain make the region vulnerable to debris flows during heavy rain events.

Environment Canada warns that severe storms like this one can quickly turn dangerous, especially in previously burned landscapes where vegetation no longer helps stabilize the ground.

Driving Conditions and Public Safety

Motorists traveling through the Shuswap and Trans-Canada Highway corridor should be aware of rapidly changing road conditions.

Heavy downpours can cause hydroplaning, sudden lane flooding, and washed-out shoulders, especially in mountainous sections of Highway 1.

Residents and travelers are advised to monitor alerts and avoid non-essential travel in storm-affected areas.