Wind warning in Metro Vancouver threatens power outages, force BC Ferries cancellations
A wind warning is in effect for Metro Vancouver as strong gusts have forced the cancellation of several BC Ferries sailings on Friday, Nov. 6, and more damage may still be to come.
BC Ferries announced that the cancellations were due to high winds and wave height in the Strait of Georgia.
There have been several cancellations of sailings on two major routes between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island, as well as the Southern Gulf Islands, on Friday morning.
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Four morning sailings between Horseshoe Bay and Departure Bay were cancelled on Nov. 6, as well as six sailings between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay.
Sailings between Tsawwassen and the Southern Gulf Islands are also cancelled up until shortly after noon on Friday.
As of press time, additional sailing cancellations have been announced by BC Ferries, including:
- 10:15 a.m. departing Tsawwassen
- 10:15 a.m. departing Duke Point
- 12:45 p.m. departing Tsawwassen
- 12:45 p.m. departing Duke Point
- 11 a.m. departing Swartz Bay
- 11 a.m. departing Tsawwassen
- 12 p.m. departing Swartz Bay
- 1 p.m. departing Swartz Bay
- 1 p.m. departing Tsawwassen
- 2 p.m. departing Tsawwassen
“If you have a booking on one of these cancelled sailings, you will hear from our Customer Service Centre to let you know if we can fit you on an alternate sailing later today, or if your booking must be cancelled,” BC Ferries explained online. “In the case of a cancellation, we will refund your fees and/or fares.”
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
The BC Ferries cancellations come as Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a wind warning for parts of Metro Vancouver, with sustained winds bringing gusts up to 70 km/h into the afternoon before weakening.
“Ahead of a low-pressure system, strong southeasterly winds will develop over the southern Strait of Georgia and Haro Strait Friday morning,” said ECCC in its alert.
“Local utility outages are possible. Secure loose objects.”
A wind warning has also been issued for parts of the Coquihalla Highway and the Okanagan Connector due to the strong winds.
“A strong low-pressure system is approaching the B.C. coast and is bringing a prolonged period of southeast winds with gusts ranging from 60 to 80 km/h to the B.C. Interior and highway passes, said ECCC. “Later this afternoon, an incoming cold front will bring a strong push of southwest winds, with gusts potentially reaching 90 km/h.
“Winds are expected to gradually ease overnight. Another potentially stronger storm is set to follow on Saturday evening. High-sided vehicles may be pushed around by strong crosswinds. Parks and forest areas may sustain damage.”
Daniel Chai/Daily Hive
The latest weather alerts also come just one day after ECCC issued a rainfall warning for Metro Vancouver on Friday, Nov. 6.
According to ECCC, it will be the first storm in a series of wet and windy weather ahead.
“Total rainfall amounts may reach up to 80 mm for communities at higher elevations on the North Shore, and communities near southern Howe Sound.
“Lower elevations and communities in northeast Vancouver, including Coquitlam, can expect closer to 50 mm by the time the rain tapers off Friday evening.”
ECCC said in the rainfall warning that water is likely to pool in low-lying areas and on roads, and that there may be washouts near rivers, creeks, and culverts.