Winter Storm Watch Issued for North and Central Coast Inland Sections
Environment Canada warns of heavy snow followed by an atmospheric river and prolonged rain for Kitimat, Terrace, and inland Central Coast areas from Sunday to Tuesday.
Alert Details
Environment Canada has issued a winter storm watch (yellow watch) for inland sections of the British Columbia coast. The alert is in response to an approaching atmospheric river expected to bring a combination of heavy snow and significant rainfall.
Affected Areas
The watch covers the following regions:
- North Coast - inland sections: Including Kitimat and Terrace.
- Central Coast - inland sections.
What You Should Do
Residents are advised to monitor updated alerts and forecasts from Environment Canada. Because roads and walkways may become difficult to navigate and road closures are possible, travelers should plan accordingly. Severe weather can be reported via email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or on X using the hashtag #BCStorm.
Expected Conditions
An atmospheric river will bring heavy snow followed by a prolonged period of rain. Initial snowfall amounts could reach 20 to 30 cm in local areas before transitioning to rain. As snow levels rise sharply to 1,500 metres, the combination of heavy rain and mountain snow melt will significantly increase the response in river systems. Potential hazards include:
- Flooding and extensive water pooling on roads.
- Possible road wash-outs.
- Enhanced risk of landslides due to saturated landscapes.
Timeline
The weather event is expected to span from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday morning:
- Sunday Morning: Light snow begins.
- Sunday Afternoon: Snow intensifies.
- Sunday Night into Monday Morning: Snow transitions to rain as temperatures rise.
- Monday: Heavy rain continues.
- Tuesday: Light to moderate rain persists; snow levels are expected to fall back to 500 metres.
Source: ECCC Official Notice