Rainfall warning issued for Metro Vancouver

A rainfall warning is in effect for Metro Vancouver which is set to be drenched by a “prolonged atmospheric river event,” according to forecasters.

Rain is expected to start Sunday afternoon and last through Wednesday morning, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada, which estimates between 100 and 150 millimetres of precipitation.

“Snowmelt from higher elevations will increase the risks from this rainfall event,” the warning says.

“Water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas. Some travel delays are possible. Landslides may occur in vulnerable areas such as steep slopes, deforested areas or recent burn scars.”

Rainfall warnings have also been issued for the Sunshine Coast and Howe Sound, as well as some parts of Vancouver Island, and a high streamflow advisory is in effect for the South Coast.

Drivers on the Sea to Sky Highway between Squamish and Whistler are also being advised to exercise caution. A special weather statement is in effect, warning of the potential for between 10 and 15 centimetres of snow and the potential for “hazardous driving conditions.”