Strong winds, heavy rains on their way as the “vigorous storm” approaches the south coast of BC



[ad_1]

A severe storm is expected to bring strong gusts of wind, rain and potentially snow to parts of the south coast early Tuesday morning.

Environment Canada says a “vigorous storm” is on its way and a wind warning is in effect for the North Vancouver Island and Metro Vancouver areas.

Southeast winds of up to 110 km / h are expected to develop overnight and early Tuesday morning on exposed areas of North Vancouver Island and the Central Coast.

Heavy rain and up to five inches of slushy snow could also accumulate on inland areas, including the Island Highway, Port Alberni, and Sutton Pass.

A cold front will bring widespread and powerful southerly winds into the Vancouver metro, according to Environment Canada. Gusts of up to 90 km / h are possible.

Emergency crews on Vancouver Island and Delta, BC are preparing for the storm, which is expected to subside later on Tuesday.

A snow warning is also in place for the Coquihalla Highway, which could see up to 20 inches of snow Monday night.

BC Ferries cancels some Tuesday departures

On Monday evening, BC Ferries canceled some morning departures on several routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island due to the strong winds and storms forecast for the region.

The city of Courtenay has deployed a water-filled barrier known as AquaDam in case the Tsolulm River overflows due to the storm.

Emergency teams in Courtenay, BC, have installed a water dam known as Aquadam as a precautionary measure to reduce flooding. (CHEK News)

BC Hydro said its crews are bracing for power outages and encouraging people to report fallen power lines.

The company pointed out that Lake Buntzen, located about 45 minutes east of Vancouver, is closed to the public in anticipation of strong winds.

Last week, Friday, November 13, the Vancouver Park Board closed part of the dam due to weather conditions.

On Monday, the city of Delta issued a storm warning for the Tsawwassen area which could see high water levels on Tuesday morning due to the real tide and strong winds. The water level is expected to rise at 8 am, but the floods are dependent on the winds.

The city said emergency teams, including engineers, firefighters and police personnel, plan to establish an accident command post and rest area on Tuesday morning.

Preparations are underway as part of the Phased Flood Preparation and Response Plan for Boundary Bay and Beach Grove to protect beach areas.

A switchboard will also open at 7:30 to answer questions and address public concerns.



[ad_2]
Source link