Overview of the Storm

Residents of British Columbia's South Coast are preparing for a powerful storm expected to hit on Christmas Day, bringing with it heavy rain and strong winds that could disrupt travel plans for many.

Weather Warnings

Rainfall warnings have been issued for Metro Vancouver and the Howe Sound region, with precipitation anticipated to begin around midday on December 25. The storm will intensify during the afternoon, leading to heavy downpours. Areas at higher elevations (above 300 meters) may experience a brief period of wet snow, creating hazardous travel conditions, according to Environment Canada.

Wind Warnings

In addition to rainfall, wind warnings are in effect for the Sunshine Coast and eastern Vancouver Island. Global BC meteorologist Mark Madryga predicts severe gusts that could reach up to 80 km/h in Metro Vancouver, particularly near the Strait of Georgia, from late morning into the evening.

Future Weather System

As the storm approaches, attention is also on a low-pressure system set to arrive on Boxing Day. While forecasts suggest that this system may track through the Juan de Fuca Strait, there remains some uncertainty regarding its exact path. The strongest winds and heaviest rainfall are likely to be concentrated along the B.C. South Coast.

Impact on BC Ferries

The situation poses significant challenges for BC Ferries, which has announced that several sailings will be canceled due to the severe weather warnings. On December 25, all ferry routes between Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Duke Point (Nanaimo) are completely canceled. This includes the following departures: - 10:15 AM from Tsawwassen - 12:45 PM from Duke Point - 3:15 PM from Tsawwassen - 5:45 PM from Duke Point

Similarly, all sailings between Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (Victoria) are cancelled for the day, specifically: - 11:00 AM from Tsawwassen - 11:00 AM from Swartz Bay - 1:00 PM from Tsawwassen - 1:00 PM from Swartz Bay - 3:00 PM from Tsawwassen - 3:00 PM from Swartz Bay - 5:00 PM from Tsawwassen - 5:00 PM from Swartz Bay

Moreover, evening sailings are also at risk of cancellation, including the 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM departures from both locations.

Additionally, the schedule for the Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) to Langdale (Sunshine Coast) route has been adjusted for December 25. Passengers with bookings on any affected sailings are urged to check their emails or contact BC Ferries’ Customer Service Centre for the latest information on modified departure times.

Safety Measures

As the storm looms, locals are advised to stay safe, keep updated with weather reports, and make alternative travel arrangements as necessary. Stay tuned for updates as this weather system unfolds!