A “series of storms” are set to slam Metro Vancouver beginning this weekend.
Environment Canada issued a special weather statement, warning of heavy rain and possible landslides.
“A series of storms bringing warm temperatures, elevated freezing levels and heavy rain will increase the potential for flooding, water pooling and possible landslides,” says the weather agency.
The first storm is expected to arrive Saturday and stick around until at least Monday.
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“Freezing levels will rise to approximately 2000 metres tonight. Through the day on Saturday the freezing levels will continue to rise to between 2500 to 3000 metres. These elevated freezing levels will persist into mid next week. The combination of elevated freezing levels and heavy rain will result in snow melt which will be in addition to the already heavy rainfall.”
The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur between Sunday and Monday. Flooding is possible due the heavy rainfall and montain snowmelt.
The River Forecast Centre has issued a flood watch warning for parts of the South Coast, the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island.
“Current forecasting is indicating the strongest atmospheric river event making landfall on Monday, with the potential for additional rainfall in the middle of next week. The heaviest rainfall is currently forecast over West Vancouver Island and the Coast Mountains,” reads the warning.
“Rivers are expected to rise over the weekend and into next week. Peak river levels are expected to occur in most areas on Sunday to Tuesday and may extend from Tuesday to Thursday for lake-driven rivers.”
Don’t plan on letting the rain ruin your weekend? Here are 13 fun and exciting things to do in Metro Vancouver this weekend!