Special weather statements issued for nearly all of Vancouver Island

Environment Canada has issued special weather statements for all of Vancouver Island except for Greater Victoria.

Just after noon Friday, Environment Canada warned that a “series of storms” was set to sweep the Island and parts of B.C.’s mainland coast starting Saturday and extending into Monday – or possibly into the mid-week, bringing with them warmer temperatures and heavy rainfall.

The storms present an elevated risk of flooding since the warmer temperatures – estimated to be five to 10°C higher than normal – could melt mountain snow present on the Island.

Drivers are urged to watch for water pooling on roads, as well as landslides in vulnerable areas and potential falling tree branches or power outages.

“The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur between Sunday and Monday,” said Environment Canada in its alert Friday.

“There will be periods of lighter rain between the storms, but it is the cumulative effects of the storms that is likely to be impactful,” said the weather office.

The special weather statement comes one day after the B.C. River Forecast Centre issued a “flood watch” for Vancouver Island.

A flood watch, which is less severe than a flood warning, means river levels may rise quickly and reach or exceed riverbanks, and that localized flooding near waterways may occur.

READ ALSO: Atmospheric river could bring rain to parts of southern B.C., risk of flooding

The River Forecast Centre has issued a High Streamflow Advisory and Flood Watches for parts of BC ????

Stay away from fast-moving water ✔️

Do not cross rivers or streams ❌https://t.co/an0KPiY40g

Learn more: https://t.co/CUj8LkEcS4 https://t.co/bitwMuCjad pic.twitter.com/KZy7oAbKlZ

— Prepared BC (@PreparedBC) January 25, 2024

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