Environment Canada said Greater Victoria and the southern Gulf Islands could see strong winds and snowsquall activity. East Vancouver Island could also see more snowsqualls.
Greater Victoria and the southern Gulf Islands are now under a wind warning as the areas get ready to see snow throughout Friday and strong winds late in the day.
Environment Canada said strong outflow winds gusting to 90 km/h are expected to develop late Friday in Howe Sound and the Fraser Valley as Arctic air pushes southwards across B.C.’s South Coast.
Greater Victoria, the southern Gulf Islands and southeastern Metro Vancouver should see the strong winds starting Friday evening. Environment Canada said beginning Friday night, outflow winds will pour out of the mainland inlets and valleys.
Reduced visibilities in blowing winds can also be expected locally. Damaging winds and cold wind chill values may also be seen.
Environment Canada said the strong winds will persist on Saturday. The weather agency is reminding residents that damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, can occur. Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage.
Greater Victoria, the southern Gulf Islands, inland Vancouver island and east Vancouver Island, from Courtenay to Campbell River, Duncan to Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay, are still under a special weather statement.
Light snow may be seen over the South Coast Thursday night with periods of snow expected on Friday. Most areas will receive two to four centimetres on Friday. By Friday night and early Saturday, some areas over east Vancouver Island, Greater Victoria and the southern Gulf Islands could see higher amounts from snowsquall activity.
The Comox Valley is also under a special air quality statement because of high concentrations of fine particulates that are expected to persist until weather conditions change. Open burning restrictions are now in effect for the Comox Valley within 15 kilometres of Courtenay City Hall for a period of two days.
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