Heavy winds in Metro Vancouver, storm hangs off Vancouver Island

A rapidly deepening low-pressure system, known as a ‘bomb cyclone,’ is bringing a massive wind storm to B.C.’s South Coast on Tuesday.

The significant fall storm is set to arrive about 400 kilometres off the west coast of Vancouver Island by the late afternoon, Environment and Climate Change Canada says, with winds peaking late Tuesday night.

1130 NewsRadio meteorologist Michael Kuss explains that the storm is set to bring winds to the west side of the Island, but will also bring wind bands up the east side of the Island, wrapping around the Island, and funneling through the Juan de Fuca Strait, the Strait of Georgia and up to the Sunshine Coast.

“That’s good news for the Lower Mainland, not as great for Vancouver Island,” he shared. “The outer areas will see the strongest breezes, that’s why the Lower Mainland is not in the wind warning, just a special weather statement for wind.”

“The wind will still potentially gust over 70 kilometres per hour around the Lower Mainland,” he added. “Those winds easterly this evening through the overnight and for tomorrow morning, before backing off into tomorrow afternoon.”

Metro Vancouver is under a special weather statement on Tuesday due to high winds. (Courtesy Environment and Climate Change Canada)

ECCC’s special weather statement covers much of Metro Vancouver, Whistler, and inland sections of the north and central coasts. ECCC has issued a wind warning for most other parts of coastal B.C.

“Coastal areas will see southeasterly winds increase through the afternoon today, with peak wind speeds expected for most areas on tonight. Strong winds are likely to continue on Wednesday morning but should ease later in the day. Very strong outflow winds can also be expected through mainland inlets and valleys,” the special weather statement explained.

“Some areas can also expect heavy rain at times during this event, but winds will remain the primary concern,” the weather service added.

ECCC is warning that the wings may down trees and branches, and residents should be prepared for power outages and travel delays. It’s urging people to also secure loose outdoor objects.

The weather service is warning of damaging winds for much of Vancouver Island’s west coast, including to building shingles and windows. “Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage. High winds may result in power outages and fallen tree branches. Motorists, especially in high profile vehicles, may expect hazardous driving conditions on highways subject to strong cross winds,” it said.

On Monday, the service also announced a waterspout watch in effect for the West Coast Vancouver Island region and most of northern coastal B.C.

“Conditions are favourable for the development of waterspouts,” said ECCC. “Wind speeds inside the spray ring of a waterspout are 45 knots or higher. Vulnerable vessels are at risk of damage or capsizing.” It said waterspouts are generally isolated in nature, but can also occur in ‘families’ of two or more, typically lasting 20 minutes or less.

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