Key Takeaways
- An atmospheric river warning is in effect for Metro Vancouver, with 50-80 mm of rain expected
- The warning affects areas including the Sea to Sky, Howe Sound, Metro Vancouver, and the North Shore
- The highest rainfall amounts are expected around the Coast Mountains, with a flood watch issued for parts of the province, including the Fraser Valley
- Drivers are warned of reduced visibility and pooling water on roads and in low-lying areas
- Overnight temperatures will remain too warm for snow, with daytime highs reaching 11°C later this week
Introduction to the Weather Warning
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued an atmospheric river warning for Metro Vancouver, effective immediately. The warning indicates that between 50 and 80 mm of rain could fall, with affected regions including the Sea to Sky, Howe Sound, Metro Vancouver, and the North Shore. The highest rainfall amounts are expected around the Coast Mountains, with the warning stating that "rain, at times heavy, is expected." The warning is set to last from Tuesday to Wednesday evening, with the ECCC advising that an atmospheric river will arrive on the South Coast of BC, bringing heavy rain and warm air that will cause freezing levels to rise.
Expected Rainfall and Flooding
The ECCC warning states that the rainfall is expected to begin on Tuesday and will last until Wednesday evening, with the atmospheric river bringing heavy rain and warm air that will cause freezing levels to rise. This, combined with snowmelt, may result in high streamflows and localized flooding. A flood watch has been issued for parts of the province, including the Fraser Valley, with the #BC River Forecast Centre upgrading a High Streamflow Advisory to a Flood Watch for the area. The ECCC warns drivers that water will "likely pool" on roads and in low-lying areas, with visibility being suddenly reduced at times.
Road Conditions and Travel
A warning has also been issued for Highway 3 between Hope and Princeton via Allison Pass, with up to 100 mm of rain expected. The ECCC advises drivers to exercise caution when traveling, as the heavy rain and pooling water on roads may cause hazardous conditions. The warning states that drivers should be prepared for reduced visibility and potentially flooding on roads, especially in low-lying areas. It is essential for drivers to check the latest road conditions and weather forecast before embarking on their journey.
Long-Term Weather Forecast
After the 48-hour period of rain and the atmospheric river passes through, there is still more precipitation in the forecast for Vancouver, but it is likely to be less heavy. Overnight temperatures will hover between 3 and 8°C for the week, still too warm for snow or winter weather. Daytime highs will reach 11°C later this week, with the ECCC stating that the pattern becomes harder to predict in the second half of December. According to ECCC Meteorologist Derek Lee, "the pattern becomes harder to predict in the second half of December," and "we may see lower temperatures than normal and a cooler trend by the end of the month."
Winter Weather Outlook
The ECCC has spoken to Daily Hive about the possibility of winter weather hitting the region, with meteorologists stating that temperatures are still too warm for snow. In a recent conversation with ECCC, Daily Hive was told that "the pattern becomes harder to predict in the second half of December," and "we may see lower temperatures than normal and a cooler trend by the end of the month." There is a possibility that this trend continues in January, with La Nina being pretty weak at the moment, which could delay the start of winter weather. However, it is essential to note that the weather forecast is subject to change, and the ECCC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.