VANCOUVER — Environment Canada says strong winds and heavy rain are expected overnight and into Monday on British Columbia’s south coast.

It says “relatively short but intense rain events” are expected to begin just after midnight, with early indicators suggesting up to 100 millimeters of rain over mountainous areas of western Vancouver Island.

The weather agency says smaller amounts are expected elsewhere in the region.

It says strong southeasterly winds are also expected overnight before becoming “very strong west to northwesterly winds” on Monday.

Environment Canada also issued a wind warning for exposed coastal areas of northern Vancouver Island and the Central Coast, saying winds beginning Sunday evening will become stronger overnight and could reach 110 km/h before to subside in the afternoon.

Special weather advisories were also issued for mountain passes in southern British Columbia, warning drivers of “high winds, rapidly accumulating snow and blowing snow” that could lead to low visibility starting Monday .

“A strong frontal system crossing central British Columbia will cause a strong frontal band to pass through the southern part of the province,” it says.

It says snow accumulations on the highest peaks, such as Coquihalla and Kootenay Pass, could exceed 20 centimeters on Monday. Strong winds are expected to persist on Tuesday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published November 3, 2024.

Brieanna Charlebois, The Canadian Press