Image: Stevendalewhite / Dreamstime / Canada’s weather agency issued storm warnings and advisories along much of the B.C. south coast early Oct. 18 2024.
BC weather

Rain, wind warnings issued for Lower Mainland, including parts of Fraser Valley

Oct 18, 2024 | 10:02 AM

VICTORIA – Canada’s weather agency issued storm warnings and advisories across much of B.C.’s south coast early Friday, indicating that rain and gusty winds will disrupt activities throughout the weekend.

Environment Canada’s rainfall warning for the Lower Mainland extends from Vancouver on the coast to the Fraser Valley, including Chilliwack, Abbotsford, and Mission.

The warning also covers Howe Sound and sections of the Sea-to-Sky Highway south of Whistler.

“Rain will begin this morning and intensify through the afternoon and evening, with the heaviest rainfall expected Saturday morning and early afternoon,” Environment Canada said in its warning for the Fraser Valley.

“Rain should ease by Saturday evening, although a second wave is expected on Sunday.” Metro Vancouver and the mountainous areas of the Fraser Valley West could receive between 90 to 150mm of rain.

Higher amounts are anticipated over the North Shore Mountains and along the Sea-to-Sky corridor.

“Ahead of the storm, ensure that drains are clear of leaves and debris, and secure loose objects outdoors,” said Environment Canada. “Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance.”

The general forecast for most parts of southwestern BC calls for up to 30 mm of rain during daylight hours on Saturday with another 10 mm expected in the evening.

Sunday will be cloudy in the morning before more rain in the afternoon.

The BC River Forecast Centre has issued a flood watch for much of the BC coast, including tributaries of the Lower Fraser, such as the Lillooet River and rivers around Pemberton, Metro Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, and the Fraser Valley.

In a statement to residents, the City of Abbotsford said crews are carrying out “standard preparations” including inspecting stormwater structure inlets, inspecting key stormwater ditches and culverts for debris.

“The river forecasts for our area (both the Fraser and the Nooksack) don’t indicate the rivers will hit concerning water levels,” the city said.

DriveBC is advising drivers to be cautious for changing road and weather conditions with the rainfall warnings active, including the pooling of water on some streets.

Meanwhile, BCAA advised drivers to avoid potholes during the atmospheric river weather events.

“Deep potholes filled with water can flood an engine and cause damage, even from the excessive splashing when you drive through a puddle,” the association said in a release.