Strong winds expected for Greater Victoria Saturday night: Environment Canada

Batten down the hatches.

Environment Canada has upgraded its special weather statement to a wind warning for Greater Victoria, saying strong southwesterly winds up to 90 kilometres per hour Saturday night could cause power outages.

The alert, also in effect for communities close to the Juan de Fuca Strait, states that winds of 40 km/h gusting to 60 will “suddenly intensify” and shift to westerly winds around 9 p.m.

“A vigorous cold front will cross southern Vancouver Island this evening. Strong westerly winds of 70 km/h gusting to 90 will develop in behind the front and persist through very early Sunday morning,” Environment Canada explains.

The weather agency says damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may occur, as high winds could toss loose objects, cause tree branches to break and prompt utility outages.

“Winds will weaken early Sunday morning but remain gusty,” according to Environment Canada. It’s encouraging people to monitor weather alerts and forecasts by visiting its website.

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