The River Forecast Centre has issued a Flood Watch for several areas across British Columbia, including North Shore, Fraser Valley, and Vancouver Island. Flood Watch means river levels are rising and could flood adjacent areas.
The south coast is experiencing the final leg of a series of storms. Since last Friday, rainfall totals have ranged from 70 to over 500 millimeters, with many regions receiving between 100 and 250 millimeters. Unseasonably warm temperatures and high freezing levels have caused significant snowmelt, with 75 to 150 millimetres of melted snow at various weather stations over the past three days.
Overnight rainfall has been recorded at 15 to 45 millimeters in Howe Sound and the North Shore Mountains, while central and northern Vancouver Island have seen 15 to 65 millimeters.
The forecast suggests that rainfall will persist through Wednesday and Thursday, with moderate to heavy showers expected over Vancouver Island and the South Coast. Temperatures are expected to rise during this period, exacerbating the runoff from melted snow. In specific areas such as Howe Sound, the North Shore Mountains, Sea-to-Sky, and the northern Fraser Valley, rivers are anticipated to undergo heightened flows on Wednesday and Thursday, with an ongoing risk of flooding.
Rainfall is predicted to subside by Friday, accompanied by cooler temperatures and drier conditions heading into the weekend. Meanwhile, the public is advised to remain vigilant and stay informed about developments in their respective areas as the situation evolves.
