Metro Vancouver is going to be rainier than usual as two atmospheric rivers are set to hit the cities this week. While the snowy weather isn’t here just yet, Metro Vancouverites should prepare for heavy rainfall, as well as strong winds.
Atmospheric Rivers
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says that “atmospheric rivers are relatively long, narrow regions in the atmosphere– like rivers in the sky– that transport most of the water vapor outside of the tropics.” They generally create extreme rainfall and floods as they stall over watersheds that are vulnerable to flooding.
Environment Canada has rainfall warnings issued for parts of Metro Vancouver, with the warning itself designated as a Yellow tier of severity. While the impact level is only moderate, there is a chance for hazardous conditions that can cause damage and disruption, as per Environment Canada’s new, colour-coded weather alert system. Around 50 to 70mm of rain is expected, lasting from now to this evening.
“A frontal system will bring rain to the south coast today,” reads the advisory. “Periods of rain will intensify to heavy rain by later this morning.” By this evening, the heavy rains will ease as the system passes.
Water is expected to pool on roads, as well as low-lying areas. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times; as such, Environment Canada recommends allowing extra time for travel.
Further Rainfall Warnings In Metro Vancouver
Another system is expected to roll through Metro Vancouver as the week continues on, setting a trend for significant rainfall. It’ll be here around Wednesday or Thursday.
Here are all the areas affected by the atmospheric rivers today:
- Northern sections of Metro Vancouver, including West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge
- Howe Sound
- Sea to Sky Highway from Squamish to Brandywine
For more information on Environment Canada’s Metro Vancouver rainfall warning, check here.
