Storm could bring more than 100 mm of rain to parts of Vancouver Island

A major shift in the weather is underway, with the first storm of September expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of Vancouver Island.

Environment Canada issued a yellow rainfall warning for West Vancouver Island on Tuesday morning. The warning carries a moderate impact level and high forecast confidence.

The weather agency says a robust frontal system currently over BC’s central coast is expected to move across Vancouver Island later Tuesday, bringing rain that will become heavy at times during the evening.

According to the warning map, the affected area stretches along much of Vancouver Island’s outer west coast, beginning around the Zeballos and Tahsis region and continuing south through Nootka Sound, Tofino, Ucluelet, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Barkley Sound, Bamfield and Port Renfrew.

It also includes remote coastal communities and sections of the Juan de Fuca coast west of Greater Victoria.

Rainfall totals of approximately 100 millimetres are expected through Wednesday, with potentially higher amounts over northern sections near Zeballos. The heavy rain should begin easing Wednesday afternoon as the system moves south of the Island.

The first fall storm is also affecting BC’s North and Central coasts. Forecasters say the heavy rain could cause sudden increases in stream levels, an increased risk of landslides and localized flooding or water pooling, particularly in areas affected by summer drought.

Strong southerly wind gusts are also possible in exposed coastal areas.

Environment Canada warns that water will likely pool on roads and in low-lying areas, while localized utility outages are possible. Drivers are reminded never to travel through flooded roadways.

Southern Vancouver Island, including Greater Victoria, is not included in the rainfall warning. As of Tuesday morning, no weather alerts were in effect for Greater Victoria.

The changing weather pattern will still bring some cooler, wetter and windier conditions to the region.

The current forecast is shaping up nicely for the Labour Day long weekend in the capital region.

Friday is expected to bring a mix of sun and cloud to the Victoria area with a high of 20°C, followed by similar conditions Saturday and a high of 19°C.

Temperatures are forecast to reach 21°C on both Sunday and Labour Day Monday, with a mix of sun and cloud throughout the region.

Overnight temperatures will hover between 11°C and 12°C throughout the weekend.

If the forecast holds, Greater Victoria residents can expect a brief taste of fall before summer-like conditions return just in time for the final long weekend of the season.