Low pushes through B.C. with drenching rains, alpine snow, and gusty winds
Steady rain, gusty winds and high-elevation snow will cover the South Coast through the day on Sunday. The weight of the snow will lead to a high avalanche risk for some areas.
A cold front associated with a potent low pressure system is continuing to trek across the South Coast and Vancouver Island, giving the region a widespread soaking. For Metro Vancouver, the heaviest rains will occur in the evening, with rates of 3-5 mm an hour.
Much of the Lower Mainland will see 30-50 mm of rainfall through Sunday, though pockets north of the Fraser Valley may see more than 50 mm. Considerably higher totals are anticipated across western Vancouver Island, where 50-100 mm could fall.
Rainfall warnings are still in effect for Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley. “Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Watch for possible washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts,” Environment Canada and Climate Change said in its warning.
Gusty winds are expected after the frontal passage Sunday evening, perhaps topping 70 km/h along exposed coastal sections.
While lower elevations deal with a round of plentiful rain, precipitation is falling as snow across the higher terrain. Some areas could see a veritable winter blast, with up to 30 cm of snow falling across southern sections of the Coast Mountains.
Accumulating snow will spill into the mountain passes, as well, potentially hampering travel through Sunday. The heaviest snow will affect the Sea-to-Sky, Coquihalla and Eagle Pass, with 20-30 cm of snow in the forecast. Travel is not recommended through these regions.
The sudden weight of additional snowfall will increase the risk for avalanches Sunday. The risk varies from moderate to high for the mountain levels.
Rain will taper Sunday overnight for the South Coast, with high-elevation snow continuing into Monday morning for the Interior.
Freezing levels will hover around 1000-1200 m this weekend, but then dropping below 1000 m with flurries possible down near sea level as the system departs.
Looking ahead to next week, B.C. can expect mostly fair and near seasonal conditions. A weak system is possible by mid- or late week, potentially bringing wet snow or mixing down to low elevations as freezing levels drop.
Stay tuned to The Weather Network for the latest forecast updates across B.C.