A Flood Watch is in effect for northern, western, central and eastern Vancouver Island and large portions of the Sunshine Coast as another series of storms moves into B.C.
The B.C. River Forecast Centre issued the watch Monday, warning that heavy rain is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, with more rainfall possible through the rest of the week.
The heaviest rainfall is forecast for western and northern Vancouver Island, as well as parts of the South Coast and Fraser Valley.
“Following a series of atmospheric rivers last week, another round of storm systems is expected to impact the BC coast starting on Tuesday,” the centre said. “The heaviest rain is forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, with lingering rainfall continuing through the rest of the week.”
Rivers could rise rapidly, with some flows reaching levels typically seen once every five to 10 years, or higher. Smaller rivers and streams are particularly vulnerable to sudden increases.
The centre said high tides and storm surge could also increase flood risks near river mouths on eastern Vancouver Island, particularly Wednesday.
“On eastern Vancouver Island, high rainfall amounts are a lower-likelihood scenario, however possible,” the centre said. “High tides and storm surge may increase flood vulnerability near the mouths of rivers on eastern Vancouver Island, particularly on Wednesday.”
People are being warned to stay away from fast-moving rivers, never drive through flooded roads or crossings and keep storm drains clear of leaves and debris.
