The Fraser Valley Regional District has issued an evacuation alert for areas near the Chilliwack River due to an ongoing atmospheric river event. This alert comes amid concerns for “potential danger to life and safety” owing to increased river flow. The district cautions residents in the region, particularly between Allison Pool and Chilliwack Lake, to prepare for possible evacuation.
Heavy Rain Forecast Across Vancouver Island and B.C. Coast
Rainfall warnings have been activated for much of Vancouver Island and British Columbia’s coastal regions. Environment Canada has forecasted continued heavy rain throughout Monday. As of Sunday morning, the B.C. River Forecast Centre expanded flood watch advisories to include all of Vancouver Island, along with the south coast, Fraser Valley, and Metro Vancouver areas.
Peak River Levels Expected
Prolonged periods of heavy rainfall are anticipated, accompanied by warmer temperatures causing additional runoff due to melting snow. The River Forecast Centre predicts peak river levels across Vancouver Island and the south coast until Monday.
- Vancouver Island: Up to 200 mm of rain is forecasted on the west side.
- Inland Vancouver Island: Expected rainfall of approximately 135 mm.
- Eastern Vancouver Island: Anticipated rainfall of around 100 mm.
- Metro Vancouver: Up to 150 mm of expected rain.
- Fraser Valley: Projected rainfall reaching up to 100 mm.
Additional Weather Watch Advisory
Warnings from the weather office indicate that the north coast, including Kitimat, will experience heavy rain throughout Sunday, tapering off around midnight, but light rain could persist until Tuesday. High streamflow advisories remain in effect for Haida Gwaii and various coastal regions.
Potential Impacts and Community Preparedness
The advisories stipulate the possibility of road washouts, localized flooding, and landslides. Residents are advised to exercise extra caution through the weekend and into the upcoming days. Climate scientists suggest that atmospheric rivers may become a frequent occurrence in B.C., especially in the Fraser Valley, highlighting the need for infrastructure improvements to mitigate potential damage.
In summary, communities in affected areas should remain prepared for heavy rainfall and moving water hazards as forecasts indicate a continuation of extreme weather patterns in the region.
