Exciting weather events are on the horizon for Metro Vancouver as Environment Canada prepares to issue a rainfall warning for the Lower Mainland due to an atmospheric river set to hit soon.

Meteorologist Armel Castellan has informed V.I.A. that the storm is anticipated to arrive on Tuesday, December 17. However, locals can breathe a sigh of relief as this system is not expected to bring the same severity as previous storms earlier this year.

"Get ready for a weather event, but it won’t be nearly as impactful as October's storm," Castellan emphasizes. This particular storm, which coincided with the B.C. Provincial Election on October 19, unleashed torrential rains that resulted in catastrophic flooding and extensive power outages throughout the area.

The rainfall is anticipated to commence late Tuesday morning, intensifying in the early afternoon and persisting through to midnight before tapering off by 5 or 6 a.m. on Wednesday morning.

Castellan describes this weather system as a “tight package,” meaning it will deliver concentrated rainfall over a short period.

Residents should also note that freezing levels will start off lower at the beginning of this wet weather event but are forecasted to rise up to 2,500 meters over time.

This means it’s likely that the local mountains will receive some initial snowfall, transitioning into rain as temperatures climb later in the day.

The criteria for the rainfall warning dictates that at least 50 mm of precipitation must accumulate within 24 hours.

Most of Metro Vancouver can expect rainfall rates of 4 to 5 mm per hour, while certain regions, particularly the North Shore, could see amounts soaring to 7 to 9 mm each hour!

Despite this storm, Castellan reassures the public that the Lower Mainland experiences around 30 to 40 atmospheric river events each year, and while some do result in significant flooding, most simply contribute beneficial moisture.

"There's no need for panic," he asserts, highlighting that this event is not expected to reach the levels of previous climate crises.

Looking forward to Wednesday, the forecast calls for a break from the downpour, with potential glimpses of sunshine throughout the day.

However, anticipate another wave of wet weather on Thursday around midday, though it is not predicted to reach rainfall warning thresholds.

As we edge closer to the weekend, prepare for more rain beginning Friday night, continuing through Saturday and Sunday.

Castellan warns, "We're heading back into a cycle of storm activity along the coast, which means more heavy rainfall is likely."

Stay alert, Vancouverites, and make sure you’re prepared for a wet week ahead!