As predicted, the Tri-City region is now under a rainfall warning with the impending downpour on the way.
Environment Canada ended its special weather statement and upgraded to a rainfall warning as of 11 a.m. today (Oct. 14), less than 20 hours after its first alert for Metro Vancouver.
In its forecast for the special weather "event," the national service is reporting up to 150 mm could fall on places like Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody during a 48-hour period on the weekend.
This could cause flash floods, localized flooding, water pooling on roads and washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts.
Meteorologists say two frontal systems are set to crossover starting tomorrow morning (Oct. 15) — rain coupled with winds gusting up to 50 km/h — off B.C.'s south coast and stay on their paths until Sunday morning (Oct. 17).
Experts explain the wet and windy conditions is a result of "high water content associated with an atmospheric river flowing from the southwest off the Pacific Ocean."
"As freezing levels rise to over 2,500 metres on Saturday, snow melt will also add to the runoff. Swelling of local streams and localized flooding are likely during this time."
According to the city's rain gauge on Burke Mountain, as of 10 a.m. today, Coquitlam has accumulated nearly 105 mm of rainfall for the month of October thus far.
That includes 50 mm that fell altogether on Oct. 9.
The last time Coquitlam recorded a triple-figure downpour in a 48-hour period was Sept. 17 and 18 when Mother Nature provided nearly 121 mm of rain.
BE PREPARED, BE AWARE
City environmental and worksite bylaw officer Angela Yeung asks residents to be weary of their own properties ahead of the predicted deluge.
"Please be diligent in checking that exposed soils are well protected and paved surfaces are swept," she said.
"Poly-sheeting should be secured and catch basin filters should be cleared of debris or removed in areas prone to flooding."
If you're planning on driving during the downpour, Environment Canada also advises commuters to turn on your lights as visibility may be reduced at certain times and maintain a safe distance between other vehicles.
You can view the seven-day forecast in the photo below or by visiting Environment Canada's website.
