‘Potent’ storm headed to Metro Vancouver: Environment Canada

A special weather statement has been issued as a “potent” storm system is set to hit Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley overnight Sunday.

Up to 70 millimetres of rain are possible on the North Shore — an area hit hard by the last atmospheric river.

“A relatively short but intense episode of rain is expected to begin shortly after midnight,” Environment Canada said.

“Peak rainfall intensities are expected on Monday morning with rain easing by midday Monday.”

The weather service advises watching out for possible washouts near rivers, creeks, and culverts. It recommends clearing storm drains of leaves and debris.

Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley are also expected to be hit with strong winds overnight until Monday afternoon.

BC Hydro tells 1130 NewsRadio they have made some preparations in advance of the storm.

“We have a team of meteorologists who monitor the weather 365 days a year, and they’ve been tracking this incoming weather system,” said spokesperson Kyle Donaldson.

“We do have crews available in the event there are some power outages that are a result of the wind storm that we’re expecting in the overnight hours, and they can head out at a moment’s notice to start work on the restoration service to impacted customers.”

The City of Vancouver has issued an extreme weather alert in response to the incoming storm. Three extra shelter spaces have been opened in the city, located at the Youth Services Centre, Aboriginal Front Door, and the Salvation Army Belkin house. Anyone sleeping outside is urged to come to the safety of one of the shelters.

Parts of Vancouver Island and the Southern Gulf Islands are also under a special weather statement, with strong rain and wind expected overnight until midday Monday.