VANCOUVER — A heavy rainfall warning has been issued for Metro Vancouver in what Environment Canada is predicting will be the first in a series of storms to swamp British Columbia's south coast.
Heavy rain is forecast for the region starting early Thursday morning, with total amounts reaching up to 60 millimetres along the North Shore mountains.
Three intense #BCstorm packing strong winds & heavy rain will hit the coast later this week. #Vancouver #Victoria https://t.co/pdZSfGG5zU pic.twitter.com/bbyX4fbXam
— EC_BCweather (@EC_BCweather) October 11, 2016
A second storm is expected to roll in by Thursday night, prompting warnings of flash floods and water pooling on roads.
A separate weather statement says the third and potentially most powerful storm will approach the coast on Saturday with very strong winds and more heavy rain.
Environment Canada says total rainfall accumulations from the storms may exceed 200 millimetres for the west and inland areas of Vancouver Island.
A VERY close call for man filming too close to shore on Hinson’s Island as #HurricaneNicole sweeps through Bermuda: https://t.co/m9ePMHjNPA pic.twitter.com/znPS0jOMds
— The Weather Network (@weathernetwork) October 13, 2016
The statement says inner coastal regions of B.C. may get rainfall accumulations over 100 millimetres, and even more near the mountains.
"At this time, it looks like each storm will become more intense," Environment Canada said in a statement covering the following areas:
Metro Vancouver — rainfall warning
Fraser Valley, including Chilliwack and Abbotsford
Vancouver Island.
Southern Gulf Islands.
Sunshine Coast
Howe Sound
Whistler
We are in #Stormwatch for #BC. Wind (100km/h+) rain (150-300mm) and snow (10-25cm) over the next few days. @weathernetwork #bcstorm pic.twitter.com/GSsAO2nzfk
— Emily Vukovic (@EmilyTWN) October 13, 2016
RAINFALL WARNING IN EFFECT FOR METRO VANCOUVER
Rain, at times heavy, is expected.
Heavy rain over the South Coast will ease briefly later this morning.
A second stronger storm will arrive on the South Coast this evening. An additional 80 to 100 mm of rainfall can be expected over Howe Sound and Metro Vancouver by Friday evening.
Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to pacificstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports to #BCStorm.
Significant rain and wind coming. Clean leaves from catch basins/eaves to prevent flooding @NVanDistrict @CityOfNorthVan @WestVanDistrict
— North Shore EM (@NorthShoreEMO) October 11, 2016
HOW TO GET READY
A Few Things To Watch For:
Downed power lines should be avoided; if found call 911.
Rivers and creeks with high, swift-moving currents could erode and undercut banks. Be careful near river edges.
High winds can blow down trees, so be careful if walking in the forest or around trees.
High winds could possibly blow planters or other things off of high-rise patios; make sure everything is secured.
Boaters should avoid being on the water during storms and ensure their boats are secured.
Autumn leaves plug up drains and gutters, causing flooding. Clear any plugged drains.
Follow instructions from officials and any first responders in your area.
Use common sense.
Grease down drains risks clogged pipes and sewers. Wipe pans with a paper towel and put in your green bin. https://t.co/c52ua4ceRz pic.twitter.com/LoUOedOA6H
— Metro Vancouver (@MetroVancouver) October 12, 2016
GET YOUR EMERGENCY KIT READY:
Enough food and water for a minimum of 72 hours.
Food that doesn't need to be cooked and never bring a barbecue inside.
Warm clothing and never bring a portable propane heater into the house.
Medications, extra prescription lenses.
Supplies for pets and children.
Flashlights and extra batteries.
Enough cash in small bills to buy anything that may be needed for a few days if credit and debit cards don't work.
