Environment Canada is warning residents along British Columbia’s North and Central Coast to prepare for severe weather as an atmospheric river moves into the region starting Thursday evening.
A Special Weather Statement is in effect for Haida Gwaii, the North Coast including Prince Rupert, the Central Coast near Bella Bella, and exposed areas of North Vancouver Island. Heavy precipitation is expected to begin this evening, followed by strong southeasterly winds on Friday. Wind speeds of 80 to 100 kilometres per hour are forecast, with gusts reaching up to 120 kilometres per hour in exposed coastal areas. The strongest winds are expected Friday afternoon through the night and into early Saturday.
Environment Canada has also issued a rainfall warning for coastal and inland North Coast regions, including Kitimat and Terrace. Rainfall totals of 50 to 100 millimetres are possible through Saturday morning. Inland sections of Highway 16 and Highway 37 may see snowfall amounts of 5 to 15 centimetres before changing to rain, with a risk of freezing rain near Terrace on Friday morning.
Forecasters warn of an increased risk of power outages, water pooling on roads, and potential washouts near rivers and culverts. Travel may be difficult, particularly in inland and mountainous areas.
Residents are encouraged to monitor Environment Canada alerts and forecasts and take precautions as conditions develop.
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