Special weather statement for Squamish

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Squamish.

Intense storms are expected to hit Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast, Howe Sound, and Metro Vancouver, possibly extending until mid-week. The storms are expected to bring warm temperatures, elevated freezing levels, and heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding, water pooling, and even landslides. A Flood Watch is also in effect for Howe Sound.

The storms are expected to bring warm temperatures, elevated freezing levels, and heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding, water pooling, and even landslides. The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur between Sunday and Monday, with periods of lighter rain between the storms, but the cumulative effects of the storms are likely to be impactful.

The combination of elevated freezing levels and heavy rain will result in snowmelt, adding to the already heavy rainfall. Freezing levels are expected to rise to approximately 2000 metres tonight, and through the day on Saturday, they will continue to rise to between 2500 to 3000 metres. These elevated freezing levels will persist into mid-next week.

The storms’ hazards include the potential for flooding as heavy rainfall combines with mountain snowmelt, leading to enhanced responses in river systems. Roads could be affected by water pooling, and landslides may occur in vulnerable areas, such as burn scars, due to heavy rain falling on already-saturated surfaces. The agency warns that strong winds and saturated soil could also result in falling tree branches and power outages, leading to travel delays.