Atmospheric river expected to bring heavy rain, snow and strong winds to B.C.’s north coast

An incoming atmospheric river is expected to bring significant rain, snow and high winds to British Columbia’s north coast, prompting multiple weather warnings from Environment Canada.

Forecasters say coastal communities including Prince Rupert, Terrace and Kitimat could receive up to 100 millimetres of rain beginning late Thursday and continuing into Saturday morning. The rainfall raises concerns about localized flooding, particularly in low-lying and drainage-prone areas.

Inland travel routes are also expected to be affected. Environment Canada warns that sections of major highways could see up to 15 centimetres of snow, with the possibility of freezing rain around Terrace. Drivers are being advised to prepare for rapidly changing road conditions.

Along the coast, a special weather statement has been issued for Haida Gwaii and coastal areas stretching from Prince Rupert south to Port McNeill on northern Vancouver Island. Wind gusts in these regions could reach speeds of up to 120 kilometres an hour, which may impact ferry service and power infrastructure.

Farther north, winter storm warnings are in effect for Stewart and the South Klondike Highway near the Alaska border, where snowfall could exceed 35 centimetres. A separate snowfall warning covers the Cassiar Mountains and areas around Watson Lake, with up to 20 centimetres of snow expected into southern Yukon.