Haines Junction, Yukon faces a risk of thunderstorms and rain early this week, but the forecast points to a sunny weekend ahead for outdoor plans. Environment Canada says unsettled weather is moving in starting Tuesday afternoon, July 28, with improving conditions expected by Friday.
There is a 40 percent chance of showers late this afternoon, along with a risk of thunderstorms, and a high of 21 degrees. Wednesday will bring rain and cooler temperatures, with highs of 15 to 18 degrees. No weather alerts are currently in effect for the area.
The weekend looks much brighter. Environment Canada is calling for a mix of sun and cloud on Saturday with a high of 23 degrees, and Sunday will see similar conditions with temperatures reaching 25 degrees.
Lightning from storms is a concern during an active wildfire season in the Yukon. Earlier this summer, multiple fires were sparked by lightning across the territory. While no alerts are in place, residents and visitors are reminded to be cautious as conditions change.
Haines Junction sits at the junction of the Alaska and Haines highways, about 158 kilometres west of Whitehorse. The village of roughly 700 to just over 1,000 people is a key access point for Kluane National Park and Reserve, which draws thousands of visitors each summer. With peak tourism season underway, a sunny weekend will be a welcome break after the midweek showers.