240K+ lose power and 1 highway closed in B.C. as storm winds rage
Intense wind gusts are creating travel and power issues in B.C. Saturday, with escalation in the number of customers sitting in the dark
The fall and winter months typically bring the most rain to southern B.C., but so far this month, we've been seeing a relatively dry December in two of the province's major cities—Vancouver and Victoria.
On average, Vancouver sees a sopping 172 mm of rain over the month of December, and Victoria sees 137 mm of rain. So far, however, as we enter the middle of the month, the cities have received 20 mm and 22.3 mm of rain, respectively.
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While the break in the rainy weather may have been welcome after the washed-out fall, rain is back on tap this weekend as a low-pressure system over the Pacific Ocean makes its way ashore over southern B.C. on Saturday.
Meanwhile, power outages continue to grow in B.C. as the winds intensify. According to BC Hydro, more than 240,000 customers are in the dark as of Saturday morning.
DriveBC reported a closure at Highway 99 due to a landslide at Brunswick Beach. Residents are asked to avoid the area as emergency service crews assess the area for damage.
Blustery winds and rain pick up
As the low comes ashore on Saturday, the rain and winds will intensify, especially up the straits.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued wind warnings for the South Coast as some gusts could reach up to 100 km/h before the winds begin to ease late Saturday.
"Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur," the agency added. "Motorists, especially in high profile vehicles, may expect hazardous driving conditions on highways subject to strong cross winds."
ECCC also issued coastal flooding warnings along Vancouver Island's West and South coasts. Waves heights could reach 5-7 metres and low-lying areas could see a storm surge of 50-80 centimetres.
Alpine snow will add highway hazards
In addition to the rainfall, freezing levels around the North Shore's alpine regions will lower to 600-800 metres. Heavy snow is forecast through Saturday for these regions as the system is pushed up the mountains and cools. 50-100 cm of snow is possible for the North Shore Mountains, while accumulations will be more limited to the south.
Some of this snow could also fall over the highway passes, so drivers should take extra care when travelling through the mountains over the weekend.
By Sunday the low should have fully moved out of the region and a dry pattern will once again take over. This time, however, the dry pattern will be paired with a drop in temperatures. Parts of northern B.C. could see temperatures drop all the way down to the -30s.
Weekend storm will hamper Saturday plans in B.C.
Thumbnail courtesy of Stephen Watson/BC Hydro/@SWatson_BCH/X.
Stay with The Weather Network for more forecast information and updates on your weather across B.C.
