An atmospheric river is set to bring prolonged and heavy rainfall to inland and east Vancouver Island, prompting a rainfall warning from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).
Forecasters say rain, at times heavy, will continue through Monday, with the heaviest rainfall expected to arrive later this afternoon. ECCC estimates between 95 and 135 mm of rain could fall over a 36-hour period.
The agency notes in addition to inland Vancouver Island, Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay will also see heavy rain.
The agency has issued a yellow warning as part of their new colour-coded warning system. Yellow alerts are the most common, and are used when weather may cause damage, disruption and some risk of injury.
READ MORE: ‘Yellow alert’: Environment Canada changes meaning of weather alert colour system
The heaviest rain is expected to persist through Monday before easing Monday night.
Officials warn the volume of rain could lead to pooling water on roads and in low-lying areas, creating hazardous driving conditions. Sudden reductions in visibility are also possible.
Rainfall warnings are issued when significant impacts are expected due to the amount of precipitation forecast.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts and alerts from ECCC and to use caution when travelling.
Erin Haluschak has been a journalist in British Columbia since 2008. She has worked in print, magazines and online spaces and is a mentor with Digital Women Leaders through the Online News Association…
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