River Forecast Centre - Flood Watch for Howe Sound and area.

Issued: 11:45 AM December 24, 2022 

The River Forecast Centre has upgraded to a Flood Watch for Howe Sound and area.

A significant rainfall pattern is moving across the southern coast of B.C today and into early next week. Rainfall amounts in the 25-70 mm range has been observed over the South Coast over the past 24 hours. Snowmelt is occurring at lower elevations.

River levels have started to experience accelerated rising in most areas. Continued heavy rain is anticipated through today, with winter storm warnings in effect from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Streamflow in the 2-year to 5-year range is anticipated in rivers throughout the region, however higher flows are possible. Low lying flooding is expected and may extend to overbank flooding of floodplains in areas. Snowmelt at lower elevations is also anticipated to cause pooling and flooding in areas with poor drainage or where drainage structures are impacted by snow and ice. Rising streamflow is expected through Saturday and in areas overnight to Sunday. Additional rainfall on Sunday through Tuesday may lead to on-going high flows and persistent flood hazards into next week.

The public is advised to stay clear of the fast-flowing rivers and potentially unstable riverbanks during the high-streamflow period.

The River Forecast Centre continues to monitor the conditions and will provide updates as conditions warrant.
Stay tuned to the River Forecast Centre for the latest:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/water/drought-flooding-dikes-dams/river-forecast-centre

December 24, 2022