Some NWT communities warned to brace for epic July rainfall

Fort Good Hope, Paulatuk and Colville Lake could be about to receive two months’ rainfall in the space of less than a day, Environment Canada warned on Thursday.

The three communities were the subject of an orange rainfall warning, the second most severe the federal agency is able to issue.

“Heavy rainfall will begin tonight. Rain will continue into Friday with total rainfall amounts of 50 to 80 mm expected,” that advisory read.

“Localized areas may approach 100 mm rainfall in this event, which is more than double the normal rainfall for the entire month of July in this area.”

That rain could even become mid-July snow on Friday night, with temperatures due to plunge down toward freezing.

“Snow may accumulate overnight and Saturday morning for more inland locations before the event ends early Sunday. Snowfall warnings will be issued if necessary,” Environment Canada stated.

When a snowfall warning was last issued in Canada in July is not clear.

More: Cabin Radio Weather

“Localized flooding is likely. Some roads may become impassable. Damage to some critical infrastructure is possible,” forecasters warned.

Norman Wells and Tulita are under a less severe yellow advisory for up to 60 mm of expected rainfall.

More follows.