The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a High Streamflow Advisory for Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast as a series of atmospheric rivers brings heavy rain to the coast.
The first storm is expected to arrive Thursday and continue into Friday, with the heaviest rainfall forecast for northern and western Vancouver Island.
“The first of these storms is expected to make landfall later today (Thursday) and extend into tomorrow, with heaviest rainfall amounts forecasted for north and west Vancouver Island and the Central Coast,” said the B.C. River Forecast Centre.
More heavy rain is forecast for the weekend and early next week, with rivers and streams expected to rise quickly.
“Current hydrologic modelling is indicating the potential for flows to reach 2-year to 5-year flows, which can contribute to localized flooding impacts,” said the B.C. River Forecast Centre.
Residents are urged to stay away from fast-flowing rivers, never drive across flooded roads and keep storm drains clear of leaves and debris.
A High Streamflow Advisory means river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly. Major flooding is not expected, but minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.
