People living in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island and the North and Central Coasts can expect stormy weather from today until October 31st.
This type of seasonal storm is typical of the region and is not unusual for this time of year. Environment Canada is forecasting a narrow band of heavy rain to move across the north and central coast on Wednesday, October 26 and Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland on Thursday, October 27.
Also known as atmospheric rivers, narrow bands of heavy rainfall like this are common in British Columbia and many occur each year, most often in the fall and early winter.
The River Forecast Center closely monitors forecasts and will issue advisories and warnings if required. At the end of a drought, this rainfall can cause flooding. However, extreme weather such as the events of mid-November 2021 are rare and not predicted at this time.
The Central Coast can expect 50 to 100 mm of rain between October 26 and October 27. Western Vancouver Island, the North Coast Mountains, the Sunshine Coast and Howe Sound can expect between 40 and 80 mm. Comparatively, Hope received 277.5 mm of rain from November 14 to November 15, 2021.
While this upcoming wet and stormy weather is typical and expected, the Province is prepared to take action to keep people and communities safe in the event of flooding, such as
- Emergency Management BC (EMBC) is working closely with communities on preparedness activities, including regular regional coordination calls with First Nations and communities.
- The River Prediction Center is monitoring weather patterns and river conditions and remains alert for a possible rapid transition to extreme wet weather that could contribute to an increased risk of flooding.
- EMBC is prepared to deploy four million sandbags to local governments to protect homes and public infrastructure.
- EMBC is prepared to deploy or pre-position sandbag machines in areas of flood concern or potential flood concern throughout the province.
- EMBC is set to install 10 kilometers of gabions, which are wall-like structures filled with sand, and 32 kilometers of tiger dams, which are collapsible orange tubes filled with water.
- This year, EMBC expanded the use of Alert Ready to issue intrusive broadcast alerts on behalf of communities to warn British Columbians of imminent flood threats.
- In 2020, EMBC launched a digital registration system for Emergency Support Services (ESS) to ensure timely access to support. Earlier this year, ESS was expanded to include direct payments to evacuees through Interac e-Transfer.
EMBC urges British Columbians to take precautions to ensure personal safety, including developing a family plan, putting together emergency kits, connecting with neighbors and learning about the local government’s emergency response plan for their area.
Also, British Columbians can take the following steps:
Protect your home:
People are advised to prepare for possible flooding of low-lying areas by moving equipment and other assets from these areas to higher ground where possible. Circumferential circulation of drainage, gutters and downspouts. Sandbags also help and can be made available through your local government.
Create grab bags and go:
Pack an individual bag for each family member with the essentials they will need if required to evacuate.
Know the danger signs:
If you live near a waterway, a change in water color or rapid change in water level, especially a drop, may indicate a problem upstream. Call the fire department, police or public works department immediately if you suspect anything is out of the ordinary.
If faced with a threatening flood situation, park vehicles away from streams and waterways, move electrical equipment to upper floors and be sure to anchor fuel supplies. Listen to local officials if you are asked to evacuate. In case of flooding, here are some tips on what to avoid:
Get away from the banks of the rivers:
Keep away from river edges and banks. During periods of high flow, riverbanks can be unstable and more prone to sudden collapse. Stay away from and keep small children and pets away from the banks of fast-flowing streams and flooded areas or bridges.
Do not drive through floodwaters:
Never attempt to drive or walk in floodwaters. Approximately 15 cm (six inches) of fast-moving water can knock over an adult, and 61 cm (two feet) of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles, including SUVs and delivery trucks.
Landslide risk:
Heavy rain can contribute to landslides and hazardous debris in streams and waterways. Be safe and don’t go look at the rushing water. If you notice trees beginning to lean or bow near your home, or cracks developing in the hillside, consult an engineer or contact local authorities.
There are more details in PreparedBC’s Flood Preparedness Guide. The guide contains useful information that will help British Columbians better protect themselves and their homes and understand what to do if their home or community is at risk of flooding.
Driving safety:
Crashes can be prevented when drivers are prepared. Some useful tips for traveling in wet weather and winter driving conditions:
- Check the weather forecast and consider postponing your trip. If travel is necessary, wait until conditions improve.
- Nearly 900 highway camera views are available at more than 450 locations across the province. Research current road conditions before you leave – @DriveBC (twitter.com) on Twitter or: DriveBC.ca
- Wear comfortable clothing that does not restrict movement while driving. Bring warm clothing (eg, winter boots, coats, gloves, and hats) in case you need to get out of the vehicle.
- Make an emergency plan. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a full tank of fuel, a windshield scraper and snow brush, food and water, a first aid kit and other emergency equipment.
- Don’t panic if you get stuck or stuck. Stay with your vehicle for safety and warmth.
- If you have a cell phone, call for roadside assistance. For emergencies call 911.
Since winter tire rules are in effect on designated roads, drivers are encouraged to get the best tires available. These include mountain/snowflake tires which offer better traction and handling in the most challenging winter weather conditions.
Learn more:
The Flood Preparedness Guide is available online: www.preparedbc.ca/floods
For tips on how to prepare grab bags, visit: www.preparedbc.ca/emergencykit
For information on alerts and evacuation orders, visit: www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca
or follow on Twitter: www.twitter.com/EmergencyInfoBC
River Forecasting Center link: http://bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/
Flood preparation for agricultural operations:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/business-market-development/emergency-management/freshet-and-flood
Flood waters can quickly wash away roads and bridges. Be prepared and plan an alternate route. For the latest road conditions, visit: www.drivebc.ca
