Storm Alert for Metro Vancouver: Prepare for Heavy Downpours, Thunderstorms, and Hail This Week!

Get ready, residents of Metro Vancouver! After a brief period of sunny weather, the forecast is about to take a wild turn with a significant storm set to hit the region on Wednesday, March 26.

According to Environment Canada meteorologist Lisa Erven, a ridge of high pressure has treated us to warmer-than-average temperatures, with highs hitting the mid-teens at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on Tuesday. In fact, the temperature reached one of the warmest March 25ths on record, leading many to enjoy the unseasonably pleasant weather. But don't get too comfortable—change is on the horizon.

On the day itself, expect sunshine in the morning with a high of 16°C. However, don’t let those rays trick you! A cold front will roll in, creating an unstable atmosphere and igniting the risk of thunderstorms from around noon to 1 PM.

Weather Warning Issued: Stay Alert!

As noted in the special weather statement issued by Environment Canada, heavy rain is expected to sweep in starting around 8 to 9 PM, with between 15 to 25 mm of precipitation likely across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. This storm doesn't come alone; alongside the heavy downpours, there’s a chance of large hail (2 cm or greater) particularly in areas near the U.S. border, including Langley Township, Aldergrove, and Abbotsford. Plus, winds could gust up to 70 km/h, which may lead to dangerous driving conditions.

Motorists are advised to remain cautious as water may pool on the roads and be vigilant for sudden visibility drops caused by the torrential rain.

A Drizzly Week Ahead!

But don’t think this storm is just a one-off! The wet weather pattern is expected to linger throughout the week, transitioning into April. Erven indicates that a broad area of low pressure will sit over Western Canada, drawing in periodic systems that could keep the region drenched in showers. While there might be brief moments of sunshine, the overall pattern is looking dreary.

Interestingly, meteorologists remind us that spring is notorious for its unpredictability. As Ervan stresses, late-season cold snaps cannot be ruled out, meaning there's still a possibility of unexpected snowfall, especially as we transition out of March.

Historically speaking, climate data from 1991 to 2020 shows that YVR averages a mere 0.12 days of trace snowfall in April, whereas March sees a significantly higher chance of light snow. This highlights how unpredictable the weather can be during this season of change.

So, buckle up, Metro Vancouver! Prepare for a wild week of weather, and keep your umbrellas handy—things are about to get stormy!