Storm Watch: Wind and Rain Warnings Issued as Powerful System Targets B.C. Coast

Southwestern British Columbia is bracing for a strong fall storm as Environment Canada issues wind and rainfall warnings across several regions, with gusts reaching up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall likely to cause flash floods and pooling on roads.

Wind warnings have been issued for parts of Metro Vancouver, Greater Victoria, coastal Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and the north and south Gulf Islands. The high winds could down trees, cause power outages, and disrupt travel, according to Environment Canada, which describes the storm as “vigorous.”

Rainfall warnings are also in place for Metro Vancouver and Howe Sound, with 50-90 millimeters expected between Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. The intense downpour poses a risk of washouts near waterways, flash floods, and other road hazards.

Environment Canada meteorologist Chris Doyle advises that while not all areas of southwestern B.C. are covered by both warnings, residents across the region should be prepared. “This is pretty close to a run-of-the-mill fall storm for the B.C. South Coast,” Doyle said.

Downtown Vancouver, though not under official warnings, is expected to experience strong, gusty winds due to high-rise wind tunnel effects. Winds are expected to ease by Wednesday morning, but areas on the west coast of Vancouver Island and the Central Coast will continue to experience sustained winds of 40-70 km/h throughout the day.