Environment Canada announced Saturday that strong wind warnings for North Vancouver Island and Haida Gwaii have now expanded to include heavy rainfall advisories across North Coast regions.
The existing weekend wind warnings issued on Friday remain in effect, forecasting southeasterly winds reaching 70 to 90 km/h, with gusts up to 110 km/h over exposed coastal zones.
“An intensifying frontal system will impact the B.C. coast today and overnight into Sunday morning,” states Environment Canada.
Wind gusts began sweeping through the affected areas Saturday morning and are expected to gradually weaken by Sunday. Environment Canada warned residents to prepare for possible power outages, transport delays, and road safety issues caused by the storm.
DriveBC issued a notice urging drivers across the North Coast to exercise additional caution through the weekend due to hazardous conditions.
“Damage to roofs, fences, branches or soft shelters is possible. Stay away from fallen power lines,” advised Environment Canada.
By Saturday morning, rainfall warnings were in effect for Haida Gwaii and North Coast communities including Kitimat, Stewart, and Terrace. These areas are expected to receive between 50 and 85 millimetres of rain from Saturday through late Sunday.
The storm system intensifying along British Columbia’s coast brings strong winds and heavy rains to northern regions, prompting safety warnings and potential disruptions.