A cross-country storm that’ll impact much of Canada over the next week has started its journey in British Columbia, with heavy rain and alpine snow hitting the province to kick off the weekend.
A significant soaking will span the South Coast region on Friday, as the low pressure tracks near the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Between 50-75 mm of rain is forecast over the harder-hit areas into Saturday, while the Metro Vancouver area will likely see closer to 10-20+ mm.
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Meanwhile, cooler temperatures will allow snow to fall along the coastal mountains and Rockies, with a range of about 5-20+ cm expected. While it’s important to be prepared for early winter driving at this time of year, this particular snowfall will not accumulate on the highways, but instead on the mountain peaks.
Friday: Heavy rain hits South Coast
A system has made its way into southern B.C., bringing a rainy Friday from Vancouver Island to the Lower Mainland, and into parts of the Interior, as well.
The heavier coastal rain will lighten through the afternoon hours, though still remaining showery into the overnight, as well.
The most significant moisture will be felt across north Vancouver Island and surrounding regions, with between 50-75 mm forecast through the day on Friday.
Heavy snow in the coastal alpines
Above highway passes, and in the high coastal alpines, 20+ cm of snow could fall. Snow totals in the Rockies will range from 5-15 cm.
While this will be a significant early October snowfall, it’s not expected to accumulate on highways, but instead on the mountain peaks. Regardless, it’s an important time to remain aware of the changing conditions, as October snows certainly aren’t unheard of across Western Canada.
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This weekend and beyond:
Several more systems will continue to impact the central and north coast with more rain through the weekend, while high pressure in Montana will help to keep southern sections dry.
Showers could reach the South Coast early next week, however, and a couple rounds of rain are expected during the week. No major fall storms are in sight yet for the region just yet.
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Temperatures will be on the cool side of seasonal into the weekend, trending warmer for next week.
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Be sure to check back for the latest weather updates across British Columbia