A provincial warning has been issued as B.C. is about to be battered by a strong storm.
Heavy rain and powerful winds are inching closer to the region and 1130 NewsRadio Meteorologist Michael Kuss says conditions have already reached the northern tip of Vancouver Island as of Thursday morning.
“This is the wave we’ve been watching all week long. It’s an evening and overnight event, where we’ll see that rain hit the South Coast and we’re looking at the winds as more of a factor, especially in exposed areas closer to the water, where we could see wind gusts over 70 kilometres per hour,” said Kuss.
He stresses that the wind tracking is a conservative estimate.
“We will also see some heavy rain bands, but sustained. That rain will be heaviest through that overnight stretch, but likely tapering off during the morning drive on Friday.”
Kuss thinks, if you don’t already, now is the time to make sure your flashlight has batteries, or you have some candles nearby.
“You can expect some local power outages with the winds whipping up, knocking down branches and trees around the area.”
The provincial government is pushing people to clear their storm drains to help reduce localized flooding.
“With wet ground and many trees still holding their leaves, strong winds can frequently uproot trees or break branches. Be prepared for power interruptions from tree damage or downed power lines. Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts show potentially significant wind and rainfall for the north coast, central coast, south coast/Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island,” said a provincial statement.
The BC River Forecast Centre is also closely monitoring the situation. You can expect high streamflow advisories, flood watches, and warnings to be issued as conditions intensify.
The Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness says it’s also prepared to deploy sandbags, gabions or tiger dams to help protect homes and infrastructure.
Authorities say now is also a good time to make sure you have an emergency kit, with enough supplies to cover your family, in your vehicle and at home.
source & photo: CityNews
