METRO VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Make sure you gear up for some wet weather — a rainfall warning has been issued for parts of Metro Vancouver.
Rain, at times heavy, is expected throughout the day, Environment Canada says. The warning covers Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, and the North Shore.
Rainfall totals of about 30 millimetres are expected for the southern areas, and regions near the mountain are forecast to receive up to 80 millimetres.
Light rain spreads ashore through midday, initially mixed with sleet over higher terrain. High 6 degrees, as the 1st #BCStorm of 2019 closes in later today, with a rainfall warning in effect tonight & Thursday. #BCStorm @NEWS1130 @BT_Vancouver
— Russ Lacate (@NEWS1130Weather) January 2, 2019
The rain is expected to ease into showers by Thursday night as a Pacific frontal system makes its way across the central coast inland.
Heavy rain also expected in the Fraser Valley
Parts of the Fraser Valley — including Chilliwack, Hope, and Abbotsford — are also expected to be hit with heavy rain. It’s expected to intensify Wednesday night and continue nto Thursday.
Rainfall amounts are expected to range from 40 to 40 millimetres, and up to 80 millimetres near the mountains.
You’re being warned of possible flash floods due to heavy downpours. Localized flooding is also possible.
Winter storm warning for Coquihalla
Meantime, forecasters have also issued a winter storm warning for the Coquihalla stretch between Hope and Merritt.
Snowfall accumulations upwards of 35 centimetres are expected by late Thursday due to this Pacific frontal system that is bringing rain to Metro Vancouver.
“There exists the potential for freezing rain over sections of the highway Thursday morning and early afternoon as the low makes landfall and the associated warm front moves through the area,” the warning reads.
A winter storm warning is also in effect for the Sea to Sky corridor, with wet snow expected to change to heavy rain near Squamish tonight.
Forecasters say snowfall accumulations of up to 15 cm are possible in areas away from the water before the rain along the corridor.
You’re reminded to drive for conditions, prepare for quickly changing travel conditions, and have the right tires and equipment.
