Heavy rain and Flood Watch alerts issued for Howe Sound

Environment Canada and the BC River Forecast Centre have issued alerts for Howe Sound over the coming days. 

A long episode of rain, at times heavy, is expected today through Monday, with 75-125 mm of rain forecasted. Environment Canada has published the following remarks as part of its Yellow Rainfall Warning: 

"An atmospheric river will take aim at the South Coast this weekend. Light rain has begun today and will continue through the day. However, the main brunt of this atmospheric river will arrive on Sunday, bringing rain, heavy at times. This heavy rain is expected to continue for 36 to 48 hours into Monday. Over this two day period of heavy rain, amounts of 75 to 125 mm can be expected, with potentially more near the North Shore Mountains. The heavier rain is expected to ease by Monday night.

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."

Flood Watch

The River Forecast Centre has issued a Flood Watch for Howe Sound:

"Weather Synopsis:

A series of atmospheric rivers is anticipated to impact coastal British Columbia over the weekend and into next week. Prolonged periods of moderate to heavy rain are possible, along with warmer temperatures and additional runoff from rain-on-snow melt. On the South Coast and Lower Mainland, the heaviest period of rain is anticipated mid-day Sunday through Monday. Temperatures are expected to rise through the weekend and into next week, with the potential for significant snowmelt on Sunday and Monday, particularly on mid-elevation terrain on Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast and North Shore Mountains/Howe Sound.

 

River Conditions:

Localized high flows are expected due to heavy rainfall rates and rain-on-snow melt runoff throughout the coastal region. Peak river levels are expected on Saturday and Sunday in northern regions, and on Sunday through Monday on Vancouver Island and the South Coast. Flows may reach or exceed 5-year to 10-year flows in areas under Flood Watch, and 2-year to 5-year flows in other areas. Expected impacts include the potential for road washouts, localized flooding, overbank flow, swiftwater hazards and landslides. Extra vigilance is appropriate through the weekend and into Monday, with the expectation that this weather pattern could lead to escalating flood hazard.

 

Stay away from riverbanks. Do not drive through flooded roads and washouts. Check road conditions in advance on DriveBC and be prepared for travelling conditions. Review personal flood response plans and be prepared to take appropriate action."

Stay tuned to the following for updates:

Environment Canada Yellow Rainfall Warning

River Forecast Centre Flood Watch

 

January 10, 2026