Environment Canada says ‘significant’ rain, snow expected in Metro Vancouver

The region is bracing for an influx of we weather, with officials warning of the potential for significant snowfall at higher elevations.

Environment Canada says parts of Metro Vancouver could see up to 60 millimetres of rain, turning to snow at higher elevations, overnight Monday and into Tuesday.

The weather office has issued a pair of warnings for the region signalling heavy rain in the forecast for low-lying areas and significant snowfall over higher terrain.

The advisories say a strong frontal system will move into the Metro Vancouver area Monday evening, with light to moderate rain beginning around midnight. The rain is expected to intensify by Tuesday morning and continue into the afternoon.

The agency says precipitation totals will reach between 50 and 60 millimetres near the North Shore mountains, while central regions of Metro Vancouver, including Vancouver itself, can expect up to 50 millimetres of rain.

Environment Canada says Burnaby Mountain and the area near the Upper Levels Highway can expect to see “a few centimetres” of accumulating snow, while snowfall over the North Shore mountains “is expected to be significant.”

The West Vancouver Police Department is warning motorists to be prepared for winter driving conditions heading into the evening.

A social media post from the department urges drivers to watch for advisories and guidance from the North Shore Emergency Management office.

The office issued its own advisory on the incoming weather system Monday, encouraging drivers to keep their gas tanks or batteries at least half full and heed all tire and chain requirements on area roadways.

The warning comes just hours after the weather office lifted a special weather statement warning of possible flooding and high tides along parts of southwestern B.C.

The bulletin covered most of the Vancouver Island coastline, the Sunshine Coast and Metro Vancouver, saying some flooding was likely as high tides combined with a low-pressure system.

Environment Canada data shows tide levels peaked at around 5.4 metres on Sunday morning, while the station’s highest water level ever recorded was 5.75 metres on Dec. 27, 2022.