Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Greater Victoria and east Vancouver Island warning of an atmospheric river that will bring heavy rain and strong winds on Thursday and Friday.
The weather agency says as much as 30 to 70 mm of rain is expected to fall while wind speeds will hit 40-60 km/h gusting to 80 km/h in some areas such as Victoria.
“Atmospheric rivers vary in intensity and impacts. This atmospheric river is expected to be similar in strength to the most recent event on Sunday, October 30,” Environment Canada said in a statement on its website.
East Vancouver Island includes Courtenay to Campbell River, Duncan to Nanaimo, and Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay.
According to the weather agency, rain is expected to begin on Thursday afternoon and intensify Thursday night. It will continue on Friday before tapering off in the afternoon period.
When it comes to winds, Environment Canada says strong southeasterlies of 40-60 km/h will develop through the Strait of Georgia on Thursday afternoon. Winds will then shift to strong west and northwesterlies of 40-60 km/h on Friday.
“Victoria has the potential for westerly winds gusting to 80 km/h Friday afternoon. Winds will ease Friday evening as the storm exits the region,” the weather agency said in a statement on its website.
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