Rain, high winds in weekend forecast

Another dumping of rain is in B.C.’s forecast for this weekend, but nothing like last weekend’s deadly atmospheric river.

The North Shore mountains could see another 75 millimetres of rain this weekend and the District of North Vancouver is getting ready.

Crews have been working throughout the week to ensure drainage basins are clear for the expected rain.

“Unlike the atmospheric river from last weekend that brought record rainfall and flooding, this storm with be light on rain but heavy on wind,” 1130 NewsRadio Meteorologist Michael Kuss said Friday.

At least three people died during last weekend’s nearly 350 mm of rain due to road washouts and a mudslide.

A 59-year-old Coquitlam man is still missing after being swept away in the Coquitlam River during Sunday’s rain.

Kuss adds the rainfall for this weekend may not exceed 20 mm for most of Metro Vancouver.

“Winds will increase late evening and peak early overnight. Gusts will range from 60-80 km/h with the stronger winds over southern Metro Vancouver,” Kuss explained.

Echoing Kuss, Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a wind warning Friday morning as gusts along B.C.’s South Coast are expected to pick up Friday night into Saturday.

The warning covers much of Metro Vancouver, east Vancouver Island, Greater Victoria, and the Southern Gulf Islands.

“A frontal system will move across the South Coast tonight bring a period of brief, but strong, gusty winds to the region,” ECCC said in its statement.

“The strongest winds will begin near midnight and end by early Saturday morning with peak wind gusts of 90 km/h expected over exposed coastal locations. Metro Vancouver should see the strongest winds over areas near Boundary Bay.”

The weather service is warning of possible power outages due to fallen trees and other hazards.

“Peak winds are expected between midnight and 3 a.m.,” Kuss added. “Winds will back off Saturday morning. Saturday and Sunday remain unsettled with a risk of isolated showers both days.”

Listen live to 1130 NewsRadio Vancouver weather updates every 10 minutes after traffic on the ones. You can also follow Meteorologist Michael Kuss on X and subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.