Environment Canada Alerts B.C. to Snowfall, High Winds, Power Outages
Severe weather conditions are impacting British Columbia, prompting Environment Canada to issue warnings for several regions. High winds and snowfall are among the expected challenges, with potential for power outages and significant hazards.
Environment Canada Alerts for B.C.
Wind Warnings in Effect
Environment Canada has issued wind warnings for various locations in British Columbia, including:
- Lower Mainland
- Vancouver Island
- Southern Gulf Islands
A low-pressure system is causing strong gusts, reaching up to 90 km/h. These winds are expected to persist until Sunday morning, posing a significant risk of damage and disruptions.
Snowfall and Travel Warnings
In addition to wind hazards, snowfall is predicted for critical roadways, specifically:
- Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt
- Highway 3 in the B.C. Interior, particularly in mountainous areas
Travelers should exercise caution due to potential hazardous conditions on these routes.
Power Outages and Emergency Responses
B.C. Hydro is actively managing multiple power outages as a result of fallen trees and high winds. The latest reports indicate:
- Over 3,000 customers in southeast Vancouver without power as of 1:15 p.m. PT on Saturday.
- More than 1,800 customers in Esquimalt, Vancouver Island, affected by similar issues.
Utility crews are investigating the causes and working to restore power safely.
Impact of Storm System
As the fall storm system impacts the B.C. coast, flooding has been reported. Heavy rains have led to:
- Cancellations of ferry services.
- Swollen rivers and streams.
Reports indicate that police rescued eight individuals near Port Hardy on northern Vancouver Island. These people were trapped by rising floodwaters and debris, which blocked local roads in both directions.
Residents and travelers in British Columbia should remain informed and cautious as the weather conditions evolve throughout the weekend.
