Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued wind warnings for the South Coast as some gusts could reach up to 100 km/h before the winds begin to ease late Saturday.
“Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur,” the agency added. “Motorists, especially in high profile vehicles, may expect hazardous driving conditions on highways subject to strong cross winds.”
ECCC also issued coastal flooding warnings along Vancouver Island’s West and South coasts. Waves heights could reach 5-7 metres and low-lying areas could see a storm surge of 50-80 centimetres.
Alpine snow will add highway hazards
In addition to the rainfall, freezing levels around the North Shore’s alpine regions will lower to 600-800 metres. Heavy snow is forecast through Saturday for these regions as the system is pushed up the mountains and cools. 50-100 cm of snow is possible for the North Shore Mountains, while accumulations will be more limited to the south.
Some of this snow could also fall over the highway passes, so drivers should take extra care when travelling through the mountains over the weekend.
By Sunday the low should have fully moved out of the region and a dry pattern will once again take over. This time, however, the dry pattern will be paired with a drop in temperatures. Parts of northern B.C. could see temperatures drop all the way down to the -30s.
Weekend storm will hamper Saturday plans in B.C.
Thumbnail courtesy of Stephen Watson/BC Hydro/@SWatson_BCH/X.
Stay with The Weather Network for more forecast information and updates on your weather across B.C.