The City of New Westminster is taking action to prepare for the atmospheric river set to dump rain on Metro Vancouver this weekend.
Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warming for Metro Vancouver, with heavy rain expected today and Saturday.
“A strong fall storm system will direct an atmospheric river towards the South Coast, bringing heavy rain to the region,” said the warning. “Rain will begin this morning and intensify through the afternoon and evening, with the heaviest rain expected Saturday morning and early afternoon. Rain should ease Saturday evening, though a second pulse of rain is expected Sunday.”
According to Environment Canada, 40 to 70 mm of rain is expected in Metro Vancouver and near the mountains of Fraser Valley West. It forecasts that rainfall could potentially exceed 100 mm over the North Shore Mountains.
Environment Canada is warning that the expected rainfall could result in water pooling on roads, swollen rivers and creeks and minor coastal flooding. It is advising people to ensure that drains are clear of leaves and debris and to secure loose objects that are outdoors.
The City of New Westminster has been taking action to prepare for the wet weather.
“City crews have been working diligently to clean catch basins and preparing mitigation measures, should they be needed,” said Wes Halliday, the city’s manager of public works. “Staff will be dispatched to respond to calls as they are received.”
Residents can help out by clearing catch basins around their property of any debris and, if possible, checking on them during the rain event.
Halliday said the City of New Westminster has posted notifications on its social media pages regarding safety around the river and how to report a problem should it be needed.
An atmospheric river is in the forecast for this weekend. 🌧️ Please keep an eye on nearby catch basins; clear debris, or report blocked basins to SeeClickFix: https://t.co/1K9tTM7YRl
— City of New Westminster (@New_Westminster) October 18, 2024
The Fraser River is also on flood watch this weekend, so please be cautious near the riverbank. pic.twitter.com/VMTPbd0E8r
Along with the rainfall warning, Environment Canada has issued two highway alerts. Drivers taking the Sea to Sky from Squamish to Whistler and the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt are warned that heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.
"Weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions," said the alert. "If visibility is reduced while driving, turn on your lights and maintain a safe following distance."
