Severe Rainfall Warning Issued for Northeast Metro Vancouver as Atmospheric River Persists
Environment Canada has issued an orange rainfall warning for northeast Metro Vancouver, forecasting up to 130 mm of rain and potential flooding through Friday.
Alert Details
Environment Canada has issued an orange rainfall warning for the northeast region of Metro Vancouver. This alert is part of a prolonged atmospheric river event currently impacting the South Coast of British Columbia. The warning is in effect immediately and is expected to remain active through Friday.
Affected Areas
The primary geographic focus of this alert is Metro Vancouver - northeast, specifically including the communities of Coquitlam and Maple Ridge.
What You Should Do
Residents in the affected areas are advised to:
- Monitor local alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
- Be prepared for localized flooding and impassable roads.
- Exercise caution near steep slopes, deforested areas, or recent burn scars due to an enhanced risk of landslides.
- Anticipate travel delays or cancellations.
- Report severe weather by emailing BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or posting on X using the hashtag #BCStorm.
Expected Conditions
Total rainfall accumulations of 80 to 130 mm are expected by Friday. High freezing levels between 2000 and 2500 metres will contribute to significant snowmelt from higher elevations. This combination of heavy rain and melting snow is likely to cause enhanced responses in river systems, leading to potential flooding. Extensive water pooling on roads and washouts are also possible.
Timeline
The period of heaviest rainfall is forecast for tonight through Friday morning. Conditions are expected to begin tapering off midday Friday as a cold front moves across the Lower Mainland. By Saturday, freezing levels are projected to drop to between 500 and 1000 metres.
Source: ECCC Official Notice