Environment Canada has issued wind warnings for much of Vancouver Island, the southern Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast, Howe Sound, the Central Coast and Metro Vancouver.

A strong frontal system is moving into the coast bringing heavy rains and winds between 70 and 90 kilometres an hour depending on the area.

The system has also prompted a rainfall warning for eastern Vancouver Island from Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay, where up to 50 millimetres of rain is forecast by late afternoon.

Snowfall warnings have been posted for the Peace and Williston regions where 10 to 15 centimetres is expected and on the South Klondike Highway where up to 25 centimetres of snow is forecast to accumulate by tonight.

High winds effect ferry sailings

High winds have forced the cancellation of the Tsawwassen-to-Nanaimo BC ferry run for at least the morning.

BC Ferries says adverse weather conditions will force the Queen of New Westminster to remain docked.

The 10:15 a.m. sailing leaving Tsawwassen was cancelled and the 12:45 p.m. departure from Duke Point will also not go ahead.

BC Ferries says passenger safety is a priority and sailings will resume when it's safe to do so.