High winds expected for Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island

A special weather statement is in effect for much of Metro Vancouver, as high winds are expected to batter the region Monday.

East Vancouver Island is also under a wind warning as Environment and Climate Change Canada explains a “strong Pacific weather system” is bringing strong winds and rain to B.C.’s South Coast.

ECCC says from Monday morning onwards, strong winds could cause damage and warns that power outages are possible.

Powerful storm west of Vancouver Island bringing rain and wind to the coast. Winds easing late today but it’ll stay overcast with on and off wet weather through Thursday. #Fall #GettingGreenAgain @CityNewsVAN @jack969 pic.twitter.com/vcjeKEovBA

— Michael Kuss (@Kusswx) September 25, 2023

“This is the first wind storm of this autumn with full foliage. The heavy tree branches are more prone to break in strong winds and it may lead to more damage and power outage than subsequent wind storms of similar wind speeds later in the season,” the weather service said.

Winds are expected to bring gusts of about 50 km/h to the region, with areas near the water seeing gusts of up to 70km/h.

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“Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage. High winds may result in power outages and fallen tree branches,” ECCC said.

What is a ‘bomb cyclone’?

CityNews Meteorologist Michael Kuss says the heaviest winds will be out over the Strait of Georgia and on the east side of Vancouver Island, where gusts could touch 90 km/h.

Kuss is also expecting 10 to 25 mm of rain for the Lower Mainland Monday, with a risk of afternoon and evening storms.

“The low-pressure system bringing the rain and wind is being referred to as a ‘bomb cyclone.’ All low-pressure systems in the northern hemisphere are cyclones. The ‘bomb’ part refers to the rapid intensification of the low pressure,” he explained.

The winds are affecting some BC Ferries sailings between the mainland and Vancouver Island.

#ServiceNotice
Due to adverse weather conditions, the following #QofNewWestminster sailings have been cxd’l today:

8:00am/12:00pm ex #Tsawwassen
10:00am/2:00pm ex #SwartzBay

Other sailings on this route are expected to proceed as scheduled.

More: https://t.co/hSbt3xlztl ^be

— BC Ferries (@BCFerries) September 25, 2023

The 8 a.m. from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay was cancelled due to high winds, with others expected to be cancelled.

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