Rain, wind warnings issued along B.C. south coast

Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning along northern sections of east Vancouver Island, with downpours expected to begin this evening as a "vigorous Pacific frontal system" moves over the coast.

It says steady rain will begin in the afternoon, intensifying in the evening and is expected to continue into Wednesday.

Total rainfall near 50 millimetres are expected in that region, and the weather office is cautioning drivers about potential washouts, flash floods and water pooling on roads.

Rainfall warnings also cover the northern sections of Metro Vancouver as well as Howe Sound, where amounts may reach 90 millimetres.

Environment Canada has also issued a wind warning for Metro Vancouver, Greater Victoria, the Southern Gulf Island, East Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast as well as for the exposed sections of west Vancouver Island.

It says the same weather system will bring southeast gusts up to 100 km/h before easing Wednesday morning, and is warning about possible damage including potential power outages.