Heavy rain, strong winds expected across Metro Vancouver as warnings remain

Another round of wet and windy weather is moving through the region—with flurries possible at higher elevations.

Another wet and unsettled day is unfolding across parts of Metro Vancouver, with Environment and Climate Change Canada maintaining a rainfall warning for the North Shore and northeast sections of the region.

• Related: BC Ferries cancels Thursday sailings due to weather

Forecasters say a low-pressure system moving across the South Coast today will continue to bring rain, at times heavy, adding to weeks of relentless stormy weather that has left the ground saturated and drainage systems under strain.

Environment Canada is calling for 50 to 70 millimetres of rain Thursday, with the most intense rainfall expected during the daytime hours. Rain is forecast to end early this evening as the system moves out of the region.

Power outages possible

Officials warn that water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas, creating hazardous driving conditions and increasing the risk of localized flooding. With soil already saturated, even moderate rainfall can lead to rapid runoff.

Environment Canada also cautions that local utility outages are possible, particularly as conditions deteriorate later in the day.

Strong winds developing

In addition to the rainfall warning, Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for parts of Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley, warning of strong southwesterly winds developing late this afternoon through early this evening.

Forecasters say an approaching low-pressure centre will cause winds to shift and strengthen, with speeds of 50 kilometres per hour and gusts reaching up to 80 kilometres per hour. The winds are expected to gradually ease later Thursday evening. More than 100,000 people were left in the dark Wednesday after another powerful windstorm swept through the South Coast.

Officials warn the combination of strong winds, rainfall, and saturated soils could lead to additional tree damage, increasing the risk of falling debris and further power outages. Parks and forested areas are expected to sustain some damage, and residents are being urged to use caution outdoors.

Flurries at higher elevations

While rain will dominate at lower elevations, Environment Canada says wet flurries may mix with rain over higher terrain this afternoon, particularly during periods of heavier precipitation.

Rainfall warnings are issued when significant impacts are expected due to precipitation amounts. Residents are being advised to secure loose objects, avoid forested areas during high winds, and never drive through flooded roads.

Environment Canada says conditions should improve later this evening as the system exits the region, though the latest warnings highlight how vulnerable parts of Metro Vancouver remain after weeks of repeated storms.