Strong fall storm hits B.C. and threatens outages, travel impacts
Special weather statements are in effect for Metro Vancouver, warning of possible power outages due to strong winds, as well as pooling on roads and localized flooding concerns
Weather Highlights:
Coastal B.C. experienced the strongest winds on Thursday
The Lower Mainland and Strait of Georgia could see wind gusts of 40–60 km/h through Friday
These winds will lead to choppy waters and wave heights of 2–4 m in the Strait of Georgia
Rainfall warnings remain in place for Vancouver Island, with 40–70 mm of additional rain expected through Friday
Strong winds and heavy rain end the week in B.C.
A series of storm systems continues to impact British Columbia this week.
The strongest winds swept through coastal B.C. on Thursday, with gusts continuing into Friday for the Lower Mainland and the Strait of Georgia.
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Wind speeds are expected to range from 40–60 km/h, which could lower freezing levels significantly. Levels are forecast to drop to 1,600 m on Friday and further down to 1,400 m by Saturday, leading to snowfall risks on high-elevation highways.
Special weather statements are in effect for Metro Vancouver, with the potential for power outages from strong winds, ponding on roads, and localized flooding.
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Rainfall warnings remain in effect for Vancouver Island through Friday morning, with an additional 40–70 mm of rain expected.
In the Strait of Georgia, wind gusts between 50–70 km/h may result in choppy seas and wave heights of 2–4 m, which could disrupt ferry schedules and result in hazardous nautical conditions.
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Forecast impacts include power outages, falling tree branches, and delays for highway and ferry traffic. Residents are advised to monitor updates and prepare for potential disruptions.
Sunshine will be limited through the weekend, with a few breaks in between systems.
Temperatures across most of the province are forecast to remain cooler-than-seasonal through the end of the month, with daytime highs more typical of early November.