A coastal flooding advisory is in effect this weekend for British Columbia’s South Coast, covering Metro Vancouver and sections of southern Vancouver Island. Environment Canada issued the advisory on Thursday, warning of potential minor to moderate coastal flooding due to abnormally high tides and low pressure conditions.
According to the City of Vancouver, coastal water levels are anticipated to reach their highest point in four years. The South Coast is currently experiencing high astronomical tides coinciding with the Earth’s closest proximity to the Sun (perihelion) and a passing low-pressure system.
The atmospheric pressure drop is expected to further raise coastal water levels, posing an increased risk of flooding beyond the anticipated tides. Sunday is identified as the day with the highest flood risk, although the exact timing of the low-pressure system’s center remains uncertain.
Environment Canada cautions of the potential for significant local flooding, making roads and walkways challenging to traverse due to water accumulation and debris. The City of Vancouver has highlighted areas along the Fraser River, Burrard Inlet including English Bay, and nearby low-lying zones as susceptible to flooding. Water levels are projected to peak around 7:30 a.m. PT on Sunday.
Neighborhoods like Southlands, the South Vancouver Industrial Area, and Locarno Beach are at heightened flood risk. Despite the alert, Vancouver’s Seawall will remain open. City crews are set to inspect tide gates and utilize drones to assess the condition of the Southlands shoreline dike.
In response to heavy rainfall and colder temperatures, additional shelter spaces will be made available in the city. Residents and businesses in low-lying regions are advised to monitor heavy rainfall and standing water, while refraining from accessing affected shorelines. The city underscores the importance of avoiding flood waters by walking, biking, driving, or swimming through them.
Moreover, Avalanche Canada has issued a warning of increased avalanche risks in alpine areas near Vancouver’s North Shore mountains, the Gibsons area, and regions east of Prince George on Saturday and Sunday. The agency rates the risk as considerable in several areas, advising against travel to avalanche-prone terrain due to the heightened danger levels.