Residents in coastal and southern British Columbia are dealing with the aftermath of an atmospheric river that brought torrential rain and wind, causing disruption to travel and utility services. Kennedy Lake, located north of Ucluelet, received an astonishing 132 millimeters of rain within a 24-hour period, making it the highest recorded rainfall in the province. The Sunshine Coast experienced a total of 102 millimeters, while Mission in the Fraser Valley recorded 97 millimeters of rainfall.
The extensive downpour resulted in a minor rockslide on Highway 4, which is the primary route connecting the Island’s east and west coasts. This particular site, called the Cameron Lake site, had previously been closed during the summer due to a wildfire on the bluffs above the road. Fortunately, the fallen debris was contained by barriers and fencing put in place during the wildfire closure, ensuring that the lanes remained clear and vehicles could pass safely, according to a spokesperson from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
Despite the significant rainfall, Ucluelet Mayor Marilyn McEwen stated that the west coast of the Island was spared from any flooding during the rainstorm, with the area accustomed to heavy rainfall. However, other parts of the Island encountered challenges, including a landslide that closed a section of Sooke River Road. Additionally, Burnside Road West was shut down due to a fallen tree that brought down power lines.
While the province’s River Forecast Centre issued a high streamflow advisory, indicating the potential for rapidly rising river levels, no major flooding was expected. However, minor flooding in low-lying areas remained a possibility. The advisory mentioned that river flows were likely to peak from Tuesday into Wednesday, with the highest levels anticipated on the west coast of the Island. Fast-flowing rivers pose safety risks, so people living near rivers were advised to exercise caution and remain aware of possible changing conditions.
Although Monday’s rain led to high water levels in streams and creeks on the south Island, senior biologist Ian Bruce from Peninsula Streams Society expressed optimism that there would be no damage to salmon-spawning beds. The society is engaged in stream restoration across the capital region with the objective of revitalizing salmon stocks. While the water in streams and creeks remained murky, preventing an immediate assessment for damage, Bruce emphasized the importance of preserving any remaining spawning beds, given the low number of fish that have returned to spawn this year.
The atmospheric river also brought strong winds to the coast, with gusts reaching speeds of 150 kilometers per hour at Sartine Island near the northern tip of Vancouver Island and 115 km/h at Sandspit on Haida Gwaii. On the mainland, Metro Vancouver, the south coast, and Lower Fraser regions were placed under a flood watch as warmer air led to snowmelt and increased runoff. High streamflow advisories were also in effect for the West and East Kootenay regions, as well as several rivers in the southern Interior.
Pooling water on roadways caused traffic disruptions in southwestern B.C., particularly on Highways 99, 7B, and 1 due to flooding. However, a section of Highway 1 in the Fraser Canyon, previously affected by a summer wildfire, was reopened after geotechnical experts recommended the precautionary closure.
As the storm continues, Environment Canada has issued warnings of ongoing winter storm conditions along Highway 1 from Eagle Pass to Rogers Pass, as well as in Yoho National Park in southeastern B.C.
As residents mop up and work to restore normalcy after the atmospheric river, the aftermath serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events. Despite the challenges faced, the swift and coordinated response by local authorities and transportation agencies has ensured the safety of residents and travelers.
