Weather warnings issued as atmospheric river approaches B.C. coast

VANCOUVER — Environment Canada has issued several rainfall warnings for British Columbia, covering much of Vancouver Island and the coastal regions as the first atmospheric river of the season approaches.

It says heavy rain is expected to reach inland sections of the central coast that will intensify throughout the day before peaking this afternoon, bringing up to 70 millimetres.

The weather office says west and inland Vancouver Island will see rainfall amounts of about 100 millimetres, possibly more than 200 millimetres in mountainous terrain.

It says Metro Vancouver will also see up to 70 millimetres, and the Sea-to-Sky corridor may get up to 100 millimetres.

The atmospheric river will also roll over B.C.'s southern Interior with prolonged periods of heavy rain expected to persist through the weekend.

The expected rain has prompted flood watches by the River Forecast Centre for several rivers along the central and south coasts, Lower Fraser tributaries, waterways in Metro Vancouver and on Vancouver Island.

Wind warnings have also been issued for exposed sections of Haida Gwaii, North and Central Coasts, and North Vancouver Island.

Environment Canada is also maintaining snow warnings along the B.C.-Yukon boundary that may bring up to 25 centimetres in some areas.

It says rapidly accumulating snow may make it difficult to drive, so it is asking travellers to be cautious while on the roads.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 18, 2024.

The Canadian Press