High Streamflow Advisory issued for Howe Sound as storms approach

The River Forecast Centre has issued a High Streamflow Advisory for the South Coast, including Howe Sound, the District of Squamish said in a notice published Nov. 5. A series of atmospheric rivers are forecast to hit the BC coast for the rest of the week and into next week.¹

The first storm is expected to arrive Thursday and extend into Friday, the district said. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued rainfall warnings across the region, with total amounts through Friday morning of 100 to 130 mm, and up to 175 mm locally or over higher terrain.¹

A second round of precipitation is expected later Saturday and into Sunday, with the potential for a spread in the areas that receive the heaviest rainfall. A third storm starting later Monday may bring a more prolonged period of rainfall across the BC coast through next week.¹

Rivers are expected to rise rapidly through Wednesday and remain high through Friday morning, according to the district. Localized minor flood issues are possible, particularly in smaller creek systems.¹

Heavy rain and high streamflow increase the risk of unstable banks, river erosion, submerged roads, swift water hazards, flooding and landslides, the district said. It asked residents to stay clear of the banks of swift-running rivers and never drive across flooded roads, bridges or river crossings.¹

Leaves can clog storm drains at this time of year and affect urban drainage, so the district asked residents to keep storm drains clear. Up-to-date information on flood alerts and river high streamflow advisories is available at bcrfc.env.gov.bc.ca/warnings/index.htm, and residents can sign up for SquamishAlert at squamish.ca/alert.¹