BC's Weather Forecast Calls For A 'Pineapple Express' With Extreme Rainfall & A Flood Threat
An atmospheric river could cause landslides and bring in over 400 millimetres of rain. 🌧
A person holds an umbrella in the rain. Right: A car drives through rain on wet roads.
Buckle up, B.C., because a potent band of tropical moisture targeting the province is set to bring in extreme rainfall totals and even the threat of landslides this month.
B.C.'s weather forecast says the province is about to be hit by a "Pineapple Express" event that will deliver over 400 millimetres of rain to some areas, creating the threat of flooding.
Here's what you need to know about the storm, including timing and how it's set to impact ski season.
What is the Pineapple Express?
According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Pineapple Express is a region of atmospheric moisture that builds up in the tropical Pacific and can "wallop" Canada's West Coast.
Associated with intense rainfall, mudslides, and flooding, the Pineapple Express is an example of what's known in meteorology as an atmospheric river, a "conveyor belt" region in the atmosphere that transports heat and moisture from the equator toward the Earth's poles.
According to The Weather Network, the Pineapple Express is one of the most famous of these rivers because it can have a strong impact.
The Pineapple Express taking aim at B.C. now will deliver high rainfall totals and send freezing levels in the province soaring, impacting ski resorts.
According to the forecast, this atmospheric river will be aimed towards Howe Sound and Central Vancouver Island, with an increased risk of landslides along the Sunshine Coast, Sea-to-Sky corridor and parts of Vancouver Island.
It will come in two parts, with the first pineapple express set to arrive on Sunday afternoon.
"During the day on Monday, the atmosphere will stall across Vancouver Island before weakening and moving southeast," says TWN.
Vancouver Island could see rainfall totals that easily exceed 200 millimetres, although locally there could be more than 400 millimetres of rain seen in remote areas.
Lesser amounts are forecast for east Vancouver Island and Greater Victoria, with an "uptick" across the Lower Mainland and Sunshine Coast, says TWN.
Another atmospheric river could hit the province Tuesday, bringing more heavy rainfall.
Soaring freezing levels impact ski season
Along with the rain, B.C.'s lower mainland could reach temperatures in the mid-teens next week, creating poor conditions for skiing and ski resorts.
Burnaby is set to see highs of 15 and 13 C next week, with Port Coquitlam set to see temperatures of 12-13 C.
"Regrettably, some ski resorts will have to shut down temporarily as the temperatures are unseasonably warm and unsustainable for skiing," says TWN.
Fortunately for skiers, Canada's spring forecast has predicted that more snowstorms and chillier temperatures are on the way for B.C.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.