17 Oct 2023 | 01:20 AM UTC
Canada: Adverse weather forecast across southwestern British Columbia Province through at least Oct. 18
Heavy rainfall forecast across parts of southwestern British Columbia Province, Canada, through Oct. 18. Flooding, disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast across parts of southwestern British Columbia Province through at least Oct. 18. Environment Canada has issued red rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across Howe Sound, North Coast, and Vancouver Island and red wind warnings across Central Coast, Haida Gwaii, and North Vancouver Island. Rainfall accumulations of up to 20 cm (8 inches) are forecast. Environment Canada has warned of possible flooding and ponding on road surfaces. Officials may update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and employees' inability to reach work sites. Electricity and telecommunications service disruptions may occur where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
