A weather warning for Vancouver has been issued ahead of a 'Category 3 atmospheric river'
There is a risk of floods.
A road in the rain. Right: A city with stormy weather.
An atmospheric river is heading for Vancouver, and the weather forecast is calling for up to 100 mm of rain in some areas and possible flooding. A rainfall warning has been issued for Metro Vancouver, which says the strong storm is expected on Friday and Saturday.
The Environment Canada warning says that the heavy rain will start on Friday and continue through to Saturday, with storm totals of 40 to 70 mm in Metro Vancouver and totals potentially exceeding 100 mm over the North Shore Mountains. Totals of 70 to 100 mm are possible for the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
The Weather Network said in a release that the weather system "will be rated as a Category 3 atmospheric river," and added that strong winds are expected to impact the region as well, which may result in power outages.
The "strong fall storm system" is set to bring an atmospheric river towards the South Coast, with the rainfall intensifying throughout Friday afternoon and evening. The heaviest rainfall is expected on Saturday morning and in the early afternoon, before slowing down in the evening. Sunday is expected to get "a second pulse of rain" though, according to Environment Canada.
Vancouver Island is also expected to feel the storm, and multiple weather warnings are in effect across the island.
Environment Canada says that hazards from the storm include water pooling on the roads, swollen rivers and creeks, and minor coastal flooding.
"Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible," Environment Canada warned.
The warning also said to make sure drains are cleared of leaves and debris ahead of the storm and to make sure you secure loose objects that are outdoors.