Environment Canada has issued multiple weather alerts covering large parts of British Columbia, warning residents about potential heavy rain, snowfall, and storms. An atmospheric river affecting the South Coast, including areas in northeast Metro Vancouver and the North Shore, may bring up to 120 millimeters of rain, potentially leading to flooding. The weather agency cautioned about possible road water pooling and washouts, advising drivers to avoid flooded roads and expect travel disruptions. There is also a risk of landslides in susceptible areas like steep slopes, deforested regions, or recent burn scars.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated along the north and west coast of Vancouver Island, with expected amounts of up to 150 mm, potentially reaching 200 mm in certain locations. The River Forecast Centre of British Columbia upgraded high streamflow advisories to flood watches for the northern and western parts of Vancouver Island and the Central Coast. A flood watch indicates potential flooding near riverbanks, while a high streamflow advisory suggests minor flooding in low-lying areas.
In the Sea-to-Sky region from Squamish to Whistler, a winter storm warning is in place due to the atmospheric river event. Up to 20 centimeters of snowfall is forecasted by midday Monday, with heavy rain expected from Monday afternoon to Wednesday, possibly totaling 70 mm. Avalanche Canada has highlighted a “high” avalanche risk level for the Sea-to-Sky region, the South Coast, and most mountainous terrain in the north and the Rockies.
Kitimat and Terrace have experienced up to 40 cm of snowfall, resulting in a winter storm warning. Bella Coola and Hagensborg on the Central Coast are also under a winter storm warning after receiving 15 cm of snow, expected to transition to heavy rain with up to 70 mm by Tuesday morning. The Fraser Canyon faces a wind warning on Monday due to strong southerly winds from a deep low-pressure system, likely persisting until Tuesday morning. Residents are advised to secure loose objects to prevent potential utility issues.
Northern British Columbia near the Yukon border could receive up to 20 cm of snowfall by midday Monday, accompanied by gusty winds up to 50 km/h reducing visibility. Although heavy snow is projected to diminish by midday in most areas, light snow showers may continue into the afternoon for Cassiar and Watson Lake. The northeast may see up to 15 cm of snow, whereas the North Coast, including Stewart and Highway 37, might experience up to 40 cm of snowfall. Snow is also expected in the central Interior and Cariboo regions, extending from Prince George to Williston, with a transition to rain showers as temperatures increase throughout the day.