Atmospheric river brings flood watch, streamflow advisories, warnings to B.C.’s south coast
Much of B.C.’s south coast remains under a high streamflow advisories Wednesday morning as an atmospheric river pounds the region with heavy rain.
But, in an update around 10 a.m., the Ministry of Water, Land, and Resource Stewardship upgraded a flood watch advisory in an area covering parts of Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley to a flood warning.
“River levels have exceeded bankfull or will exceed bankfull imminently, and that flooding of areas adjacent to the rivers affected will result,” the ministry said.
Environment and Climate Change Canada says 40 to 70 millimetres of rain are expected to fall between Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.
“Warm air with the system will cause freezing levels to rise and snowmelt combined with the rain may result in high streamflows and localized flooding,” said the agency.
“Water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas. Visibility will likely be suddenly reduced at times.”
1130 NewsRadio Meteorologist Michael Kuss says the rain comes from a stream that stretches back nearly as far as the Hawaiian Islands.
He says it will gather strength as it moves east past Vancouver Island.
“The rain will continue to be the heaviest through the eastern parts of Metro Vancouver and then out into the Valley where we have that ‘Orange Warning’ posted, meaning dangerous conditions are developing,” said Kuss, referring to an ECCC alert.
The ‘Orange Warning’ covers the central Fraser Valley, including Chilliwack and east to Hope, Hope Slide, and the Highway 3 route from Hope to Princeton.
The warning said, “Warm air with the system will cause freezing levels to rise and snowmelt combined with the already saturated ground and heavy rain, will likely result in high streamflows and localized flooding.”
The agency says some roads in the area may become impassable, and drivers are warned not to drive through flooded roads.
Kuss says the stream of rain is not likely to ease up until the late afternoon Wednesday.
Minister of Emergency Management Kelly Greene will hold a media event at 2 p.m., addressing the province’s flood risk and response.
Flooding begins in Abbotsford
The City of Abbotsford says it’s already aware of some localized flooding as of Wednesday morning.
Officials say the city is in contact with Washington state’s Whatcom County on the status of the Nooksack River, which feeds into the Valley.
“Should the Nooksack River overtop its banks, we expect overland flow from the U.S.A. could impact Vye, Boundary and Angus Campbell roads at various locations near the Canada/U.S.A. border. Historically, it has taken approximately 7 hours for the water to reach Abbotsford,” said a city statement.
It reports that a newly established emergency operations centre will continue monitoring river levels, and staff are stationed at the Barrowtown Pump Station providing support.
“We are preparing to close roads at low spots later today. Currently, Clayburn Road is closed between Highway 11 and Wright Street.”
The city is warning residents to stay away from river and stream banks, clear storm drains, and report clogged storm drains or flooding to 604-853-5485 during the day or 604-864-5552 after hours.
“Sand and sandbags are available outside the City of Abbotsford Public Works Yard at 31739 King Road, Abbotsford.”
RCMP urges safe driving in downpour
BC Highway Patrol’s Cpl. Michael McLaughlin is asking drivers to slow down in unfavourable conditions.
“That increases your ability to react,” said McLaughlin. “And if you do get into a collision, it will really reduce the severity of the collision. Next up, watch out for that pooling water. Not only is it scary, and you’re possibly going to blind other drivers with the spray, but it’s going to affect your braking. Your brakes aren’t going to work as well, and you might even hydroplane.”
The combination of darkness and rain increases the odds of crashes, and driving slowly is most effective when everyone on the road does it.
“Speed plus slow is very bad on our roads, so we’re encouraging everyone to drive more slowly. Give yourself more time. Try and exercise 20 per cent more patience when you’re behind the wheel, and that will help you avoid trouble.”
Listen live to 1130 NewsRadio Vancouver every 10 minutes on the ones for weather updates. You can also follow @CityNewsVan and Meteorologist Michael Kuss on X and subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.
