Environment Canada has forecasted a potent frontal system to bring around 50 millimetres of rain to Vancouver, British Columbia’s largest city, starting Monday night. Additionally, snowfall is expected in the North Shore mountains.
Initially, a special weather statement was issued for Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Coquitlam, and Maple Ridge on Monday morning, which was later upgraded to a rainfall warning. The agency anticipates light to moderate rain to commence late Monday night, intensifying on Tuesday morning.
The warning specifies that rain amounts near the North Shore mountains could reach 50 to 60 mm, while central Vancouver areas may see up to 50 mm of rainfall. Furthermore, elevated areas like the North Shore mountains, Burnaby Mountain, and near the Upper Levels Highway might experience snow accumulation.
The recent weather advisory follows the lifting of a previous warning about potential flooding in parts of the South Coast due to stormy conditions and high tides. Meteorologist Ken Dosanjh mentioned that the incoming rain from the Gulf of Alaska could lead to dropping freezing levels in Southwest B.C.
Regarding snowfall, Dosanjh stated that higher terrain regions, such as the North Shore and Burnaby Mountain, could expect wet snow accumulation. However, the exact snowfall amounts remain uncertain.
Transportation Ministry representatives mentioned that contractors would monitor highways for snow conditions, especially on the Sea-to-Sky Highway, advising drivers to plan ahead for possible delays or road closures.
In addition to the rainfall warning, Environment Canada issued snowfall warnings for the Sea-to-Sky corridor, including Squamish and Whistler, with expectations of 10 to 20 centimetres of snow by late Tuesday. Avalanche Canada rated the avalanche risk in these areas as moderate.
In contrast, the alpine section of the Tri-Cities and Burnaby Mountain areas faced a “considerable” avalanche danger rating. Public avalanche forecaster Jesse Percival emphasized substantial new snowfall and strong winds in the South Coast mountains, leading to a heightened avalanche hazard level.
Percival advised against travel in avalanche-prone areas during high-risk conditions, suggesting seeking out safer terrain to mitigate risks.