BC's weather calls for snow, an atmospheric river, up to 200 mm of rain & possible landslides

Cold weather is set to hit B.C. this week with below-seasonal temperatures and snow, but eyes are on the atmospheric river predicted to come right after.

Higher elevations along the coast and the Rockies are expected to see snow this week, and even some lower elevation areas like Whistler Village may get a taste of winter by Friday, according to The Weather Network forecast. The chilly air is set to sweep across the province, likely bringing snow to other areas as well.

Right after the snow comes though, the rain is supposed to hit.

Friday is predicted to be the start of an atmospheric river, TWN says, and it's "the first of the season that targets the South Coast specifically."

The system is expected to bring in heavy rainfall, specifically targeting the South Coast, starting this Friday. "Atmospheric rivers transport huge amounts of moisture, like rivers in the sky, and when this moisture hits the coast, it can release heavy rain," the TWN forecast said.

The 48-hour total rainfall predictions — for Friday afternoon to Sunday evening — as of now are up to 200 mm for Western Vancouver Island, up to 150 mm for the North Shore, up to 100 mm for Downtown Vancouver, and 100 mm for inland Vancouver Island.

The rainfall predictions may shift over the coming days, but TWN said that "Western Vancouver Island has the highest confidence to see more than 150 mm of rainfall, with the North Shore Mountains likely seeing a minimum of 100 mm."

The forecast warned that the heaviest rainfall is expected to be Friday overnight and into Saturday and that there is a risk of flooding and landslides, with an "increased risk of landslides across Vancouver Island and the South Coast."

TWN added that "landslides could become a concern in areas like Highway 4 on Vancouver Island."

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.