A special weather statement is out for Metro Vancouver as a powerful storm brings strong winds and heavy rain. Prepare for outages and hazardous travel.
Stirring winds lash region
On Thursday, Oct. 23, the weather monitoring agency Environment Canada issued a special weather statement for the Metro Vancouver area as a strong frontal system moves through. The statement comes ahead of a predicted surge in wind speeds and rainfall across the region.
Brewing storm across coast and islands
Meteorologist Brian Proctor reports that an atmospheric river is already producing gusts of up to 130 km/h at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. In the Strait of Georgia, winds reached 70 km/h at Sisters Islets and are expected to intensify. He states that winds of 60–80 km/h are likely near the water, just shy of formal warning levels for Metro Vancouver.
Rainfall and power-outage risks mount
The frontal system is expected to persist through Friday morning, delivering 20–40 mm of rain across most low-lying areas, and up to 80 mm in higher-elevation zones such as the North Shore mountains. Powerful winds may damage trees and down power lines, raising the possibility of outages. While major flooding is not anticipated, urban ponding is possible where drains are blocked and drivers may face reduced visibility or poor traction on wet, leaf-strewn roads.
Warnings and watch-lists activated
The BC River Forecast Centre has issued a flood watch for large portions of B.C.’s south coast, and a high streamflow advisory is in place for the Lower Mainland. This means rivers and streams are rising or expected to rise, and while no major flooding is forecast, minor flooding in low-lying areas remains a concern. Motorists are advised to check the DriveBC website for the latest road-condition updates and to consider cancelling travel during hazardous conditions. Additionally, the ferry operator BC Ferries confirms normal sailings for now but is monitoring conditions closely.
Outlook and follow-on system ahead
Forecasters say the current storm should begin to ease by Friday afternoon as the system moves inland. A second storm is expected to arrive Saturday night — less intense in wind and rain, but part of a pattern of storms every 36 hours through at least November. Cold air will follow, increasing the chance of snow on higher highways during the next system, especially for travellers on routes requiring winter or M+S tires from Oct. 1 to Apr. 30.
What residents can do now
Metro Vancouver residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, prepare for possible power interruptions, and avoid non-essential travel during peak wind and rainfall periods. Drivers should slow down in heavy rain, avoid standing water, and monitor conditions via official sources. At higher elevations, the risk of snow from the next system means winter gear and vehicle preparation are advised.
