A mix of smoky skies and a chance of thunderstorms is on the horizon for the Okanagan.

Just before 12 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8, the North and Central Okanagan as well as Princeton are currently under a special air quality statement issued by Environment Canada.

Smoke from local wildfires is expected to last around 24-48 hours. 

"The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk," said Environment Canada. "As smoke levels increase, health risks increase." 

Smoke is most likely to impact those vulnerable, including seniors, pregnant women and people, young kids, and people who smoke. People are also recommended to reduce strenuous activity, limit time outdoors, and prioritize keeping cool. Also, check in on family and friends who could be impacted by the smoke.

On top of poor air quality, the entire Okanagan has a risk of a thunderstorm on both Thursday night and Friday night, Aug. 9. Over the course of the weekend and into next week, there is a 30-40 per cent of showers every night. It is forecast to be sunny all weekend with highs ranging from 29 C to 32 C.

Lightning is the recent cause of a few wildfires in the Okanagan, including the Hullcar Mountain wildfire west of Armstrong and other fires in the region.