What would November be without a week full of weather alerts?
Environment Canada has been keeping busy this week, and for good reason. Another storm system is moving across the south coast, bringing strong winds, high tides, and the risk of some local flooding around Greater Victoria and the southern Gulf Islands.
A wind warning was issued early Thursday morning for Greater Victoria, with forecasters calling for southeasterly gusts reaching up to 90 km/h this afternoon. The wind is expected to ease by early evening, though it’ll stay gusty overnight and into Friday morning.
Accoring to the weather agency, a strong low-pressure system is to blame as it sweeps across coastal BC. The system is expected to generate winds strong enough to knock out power in some areas, down branches, and cause travel delays on roads and ferries.
People living near exposed waterfronts should take precautions and secure any loose outdoor items.
The coastal flooding statement first issued on Tuesday also remains in effect. The combination of powerful southeasterly winds and high tide this afternoon could push ocean water levels higher than normal — possibly even above the highest astronomical tide in a few areas.
Environment Canada says minor flooding is likely along low-lying shorelines, and debris such as driftwood or rocks could make roads and pathways near the water difficult to use.
Coastal erosion may also occur in sensitive spots like beaches, dunes, and tidal flats.
Travellers are being warned that the weather could also affect BC Ferries sailings this afternoom.
The company posted a warning on its website stating that the 3 p.m. departure from Tsawwassen and the 5 p.m. sailing from Swartz Bay are at risk of cancellation if winds worsen this afternoon.
No other sailings are impacted at this time, but the company says crews are monitoring conditions closely and will contact passengers with reservations if plans change.
Forecasters expect the winds to calm down later tonight, but it’ll stay unsettled across southern BC heading into the weekend.
Stay safe and keep an eye on the latest updates from Environment Canada and BC Ferries as the system moves through.
