A coastal flooding warning is in effect this weekend for the South Coast of British Columbia, covering Metro Vancouver and portions of southern Vancouver Island. The alert was issued by Environment Canada on Thursday, citing the combination of abnormally high tides and low pressure that could lead to minor to moderate coastal flooding.
According to the City of Vancouver, coastal water levels are anticipated to reach their highest point in Vancouver over the past four years. This scenario is attributed to the South Coast entering a phase of high astronomical tides coinciding with the Earth’s closest approach to the Sun (perihelion) alongside a passing low-pressure system.
The atmospheric pressure drop is expected to further raise coastal water levels beyond the anticipated tides, heightening the risk of coastal flooding. The agency has highlighted Sunday as the day with the highest flood risk, although the exact timing of the low-pressure system’s center remains uncertain.
There is a possibility of significant localized flooding, making roads and walkways challenging to navigate due to flooding or debris, as per Environment Canada. The City of Vancouver has identified areas along the Fraser River, the Burrard Inlet encompassing English Bay, and adjacent low-lying regions as potentially impacted by the flooding.
Water levels are projected to peak around 7:30 a.m. PT on Sunday, with neighborhoods like Southlands, the South Vancouver Industrial Area, and Locarno Beach facing an increased flood risk. Despite the alert, Vancouver’s Seawall remains accessible.
City crews will conduct inspections on tide gates and employ a drone to evaluate the condition of the Southlands shoreline dike, according to the bulletin. In response to the heavy rainfall and lower temperatures, additional shelter spaces will be made available by the city.
Residents and businesses situated in low-lying areas are advised to monitor heavy rainfall and pooling water, abstain from impacted shorelines, and avoid walking, biking, driving, or swimming in flood waters. Avalanche Canada has also issued warnings of potentially hazardous conditions conducive to avalanches in alpine regions on Vancouver’s North Shore mountains, the Gibsons area, and other specified areas. The risk is considered considerable, prompting caution and avoidance of avalanche terrain.