Say goodbye to the sunshine — B.C.'s weather forecast is calling for heavy rain and snowfall this weekend. While much of the province has experienced a relatively dry winter, significant precipitation is on the way.
The Weather Network (TWN) said that "an atmospheric river event is setting up for this weekend" in B.C.'s South Coast region. The rainfall is welcome, as "the majority of B.C. has seen less than 60% of normal precipitation" so far this winter.
Heavy rain is expected throughout Saturday and Sunday, with weekend totals reaching over 100 mm in parts of Vancouver Island, including Tofino. Metro Vancouver could see up to 70 mm, while Victoria may receive as much as 30 mm.
Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for West Vancouver Island, effective from Friday evening through Saturday night, with expected rainfall amounts of up to 120 mm.
Meanwhile, coastal mountains are in for a major snowfall with forecasts predicting up to 100 cm, and between 20 to 40 cm for the Alpine Rockies.
And the wet weather won't be short-lived. TWN says the stormy conditions are likely to persist "well into the second half of March," accompanied by cold temperatures that could result in "very impressive snow totals" for alpine regions — great news for skiers heading into the spring!
The wild weather may extend into next week as well. TWN notes that "forecasters are also keeping an eye on a rather strong storm that could bring powerful winds through the middle of next week."
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