Environment Canada has issued several weather alerts for a large part of British Columbia, warning residents about the possibility of heavy rain, snow, and storms. An atmospheric river affecting the South Coast, including the northeast of Metro Vancouver and the North Shore, could bring up to 120 millimeters of rain, potentially leading to flooding. The weather authority highlighted the risk of extensive water pooling on roads and potential landslides in vulnerable areas. Drivers are advised to avoid flooded roads and prepare for travel delays.
Heavy rain is also anticipated on the north and west coast of Vancouver Island, with rainfall amounts reaching up to 150 mm and possibly up to 200 mm in some locations. The River Forecast Centre in British Columbia has upgraded high streamflow advisories to flood watches for the northern and western parts of Vancouver Island and the Central Coast, indicating potential flooding near riverbanks and minor flooding in low-lying areas.
In the Sea-to-Sky region from Squamish to Whistler, a winter storm warning is in place due to the atmospheric river event. Up to 20 centimeters of snow is expected by midday Monday, with periods of heavy rain forecasted from Monday afternoon to Wednesday. Avalanche Canada has raised the avalanche risk to “high” for the Sea-to-Sky region, South Coast, and most mountain areas in the north and the Rockies.
In Kitimat and Terrace, significant snowfall has been reported, leading to a winter storm warning. A similar warning is in effect for Bella Coola and Hagensborg on the Central Coast, where snow is expected to transition to heavy rain. Wind warnings have been issued for the Fraser Canyon due to strong southerly winds, potentially causing utility disruptions. Additionally, northern British Columbia near the Yukon border may experience up to 20 cm of snowfall and reduced visibilities due to gusty winds.
Various regions across British Columbia are expected to receive significant snowfall, with the central Interior and Cariboo regions likely to see snow changing to rain showers as temperatures increase during the day.