Warnings Issued, Roads Closed as Atmospheric River Hits B.C.’s South Coast

A rainfall warning remains in effect on Saturday as a powerful atmospheric river pounds British Columbia’s South Coast, bringing heavy rain, flooding, and road closures. The warning covers Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, Howe Sound, and parts of the Sea to Sky region.

Environment Canada forecasts between 80 and 120 millimetres of rain by Sunday, with the heaviest downpours expected to ease Saturday night before a second wave of intense rain on Sunday. The agency warns of significant water pooling on roads, swollen rivers and creeks, and potential coastal flooding.

“There will be moments when rainfall intensity, especially in elevated areas, could reach 15 to 20 millimetres per hour, triggering risks like landslides and washouts,” said Armel Castellan, a meteorologist with Environment Canada.

Residents across the South Coast are being advised to avoid non-essential travel, particularly near rivers and streams. In North Vancouver, West 1st Street from Donaghy Avenue to Mackay Avenue and Alder Street at St. Davids Avenue are closed due to flooding.

In West Vancouver, road closures and hazards include the eastbound and westbound ramps to Highway 1 at 21st Street and portions of Marine Drive from Taylor Way to 24th Street, where pooling water and popped manholes are causing issues. North Shore Emergency Management has set up a reception centre at Mickey McDougall Recreation Centre for displaced residents.

Surrey RCMP has also warned the public to avoid the intersection of King George Boulevard and 128 Street due to severe flooding, reducing southbound traffic to one lane near the Pattullo Bridge.

Meanwhile, Langley’s 201A Street turned into a lake, requiring vehicles to be towed, and multiple on- and off-ramps across the South Coast and Vancouver Island are closed. Drivers are encouraged to check road conditions on Drive BC before traveling.

The BC River Forecast Centre has upgraded its flood watch to a flood warning for West Vancouver Island, including rivers near Tofino, Bamfield, and Port Renfrew, as well as the Coquitlam River. Authorities are urging the public to avoid rivers and creeks as banks could become unstable due to the heavy rainfall.