The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow advisory for the North Shore Mountains and other parts of the South Coast, warning residents to prepare for heavy rainfall and rising rivers.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, an unseasonably wet storm system is expected to bring up to 50 millimetres of rain to most areas on Friday, with more than 80 millimetres possible over higher terrain. The heaviest rain is forecast for Friday afternoon.
Rivers and creeks on the North Shore could rise quickly, creating safety risks for people near fast-moving water. Officials noted that while major flooding is not expected, high flows could cause road washouts and hazardous conditions along riverbanks.
The advisory also applies to areas including Howe Sound, the Sea-to-Sky corridor, and Pemberton. In glacial systems such as the Squamish River, flows are already high from seasonal melt and could increase further with rainfall. Residents in Whistler and Pemberton may also see rising streams in headwater areas, even if less rain falls there.
Officials are reminding the public to stay clear of riverbanks and prepare for potential flood hazards.
