Another storm is heading toward British Columbia’s already soaked coast, with heavy rain forecast from Tuesday through Thursday after weekend weather caused widespread power outages, evacuations and a death.

Environment Canada has issued wind warnings and special weather statements for large parts of the province, according to Canadian Press reporting published by Global News.

Haida Gwaii and northern Vancouver Island were expected to see wind gusts of up to 110 kilometres an hour into Monday afternoon. A following low-pressure system could bring winds reaching warning levels again.

A special weather statement covering most of the B.C. coast and Vancouver Island warns of a “strong and potent” series of storms approaching between Tuesday and Thursday. Heavy rain is expected, particularly in upslope terrain and at higher elevations.

The forecast comes after several low-pressure systems drenched the region, leaving thousands without electricity. An evacuation order was issued for about 30 properties in Zeballos, on Vancouver Island’s northwest coast. In Surrey, a driver died Saturday after two vehicles became trapped beneath a fallen tree.

Environment Canada says the amount of rain and the areas likely to be hardest hit remain uncertain. Some areas are also expected to experience gusty southerly winds.

The agency warns that heavy precipitation could cause water to pool in places with poor drainage, worsening localized flooding concerns, especially in communities already affected by significant rain.

Sources