Canada: Severe weather forecast across most of British Columbia through at least March 8

Severe weather is forecast over most of British Columbia through at least March 8. A weather system is forecast to bring rainfall, strong winds, and snow over higher elevations to parts of British Columbia. Flooding is possible in areas where heavy rainfall occurs. Hazardous travel conditions are likely in areas where more wintry precipitation falls due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages in parts of the affected area. As of late March 7, Environment Canada has issued the following warnings:

• Red snowfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Highway 97 from Bear Lake to Link Creek, Carp Lake Provincial Park, McLeod Lake, Mackenzie, Fort St. James, and areas north of Prince George, including Bear Lake through March 7. Snowfall of 10 cm (4 inches) is forecast.

• Red winter storm warnings: inland North Coast, including Stewart, Terrace, and Kitimat. Snowfall accumulation of 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) for Stewart and Terrace and 25-45 cm (10-18 inches) for Kitimat is forecast.

• Red rainfall warnings: West Vancouver Island and western portions of North Vancouver Island, including Port Alice. Total rainfall of 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) and strong southeasterly winds of 70 kph (43 mph) are forecast.

• Grey special weather statements for snow over higher elevations: Metro Vancouver, Howe Sound, Whistler, and Sea to Sky Highway.

Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours.

The storm system could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, including rain and snow, and strong winds across the affected area. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Precipitation could fall as snow in parts of the affected area over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in these areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.