Rain in British Columbia has caused flooding and road closures. Power outages led to the temporary closure of some polling stations on Saturday, while Environment Canada issued heavy rain warnings for several regions.
The atmospheric river touches the coast and the southern interior of the province. Social networks were literally flooded with images and videos showing streets invaded by water which sometimes rose above the tires of cars. Streets turned into rivers of dirty water carrying debris.
According to the authorities, the movement of the population, as voters go to vote, increases the challenges posed by the weather.
It would be a good day to stay home, says Vancouver police spokesperson Sergeant Steve Addison, but it’s understandable if that doesn’t happen. It’s election day.
Earlier today, Environment Canada issued a rain alert for areas of Metro Vancouver-Central including the city of Vancouver Burnaby et New Westminsteras well as for the west and center of the valley Fraserin the bathroom Howe et Whistler.
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Drivers were surprised by the intensity of the precipitation on Saturday.
Photo: Provided by Shane MacKichan
According to Environment Canada, a strong fall storm is pushing an atmospheric river towards the south coast and will cause heavy rain in the region.
This heavy rainfall comes as British Columbians are called to vote to elect their next government.
Since strong winds and rain can cause power outages, Election BC monitors the situation at its polling stations and posts updates on its website (New window) (in English). The situation quickly returned to normal in polling stations affected by power outages on Saturday morning.
More than 90 mm of rain
Environment Canada is forecasting total amounts of 90 to 150 mm in the Metro Vancouver area and parts of the Fraser Valley, with higher amounts potentially exceeding 180 mm over the North Coast Mountains. In the corridor Sea-to-Skytotal quantities of 90 to 150 mm are possible.
Heavy rain will persist on Saturday, then ease somewhat in the evening or overnight. A second spell of rain is expected on Sunday before the precipitation stops late on Sunday.
Environment Canada invites the public to consult the most recent advisories from the River Forecast Center (New window) (in English only).
Torrential rains can cause flash flooding and accumulation of water on roads. Flooding is possible in places in the lowlands.
The GRC of Surrey issued news releases Saturday morning regarding road closures following flooding, including on King George Boulevard at the intersection of 128th Street.
