A high streamflow advisory has is issued for Central Vancouver Island including the Somass River and smaller tributaries in the region. A wind warning is also in effect for inland Vancouver Island.
Rainfall associated with a Pacific storm system is expected to impact Vancouver Island overnight Wednesday and into Thursday morning. Environment Canada is forecasting precipitation amounts in the 50-80 mm range overnight. Temperatures are also expected to warm, and additional melt from snow is possible later in the storm cycle.
The overall storm pattern is currently forecast to bring heavy rain across much of Vancouver Island. Rivers are expected to rise rapidly overnight in response to rainfall, and reach peak levels later on Thursday morning, or into Thursday afternoon.
While the current assessment suggests that the highest flows are expected in Central Vancouver Island, including the Somass River and tributaries, high flows are also possible in adjacent areas, particularly if the storm systems stalls as it passes Vancouver Island. Higher flows are also possible into northern Vancouver Island, East Vancouver Island, and Southern Vancouver Island.
The public is cautioned to stay clear of rivers during rain events due to quickly flowing water and potentially unstable riverbanks.
The River Forecast Centre will continue to monitor conditions and will provide updates as conditions warrant.
Strong winds that may cause damage are expected or occurring.
Winds up to 70 km/h will occur overnight and into Thursday morning as a strong cold front crosses Vancouver Island. The threat of strong winds will pass by noon on Thursday.Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur. High winds may toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to pacificstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports to #BCStorm.