Ferries cancelled as southwest B.C. hit with storm on Christmas Day

B.C. Ferries Cancelled Trips Between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island Due to Severe Windstorm

A severe windstorm slammed into the southwest coast of British Columbia on Christmas Day, prompting B.C. Ferries to cancel trips between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Environment Canada issued wind warnings for the entire B.C. coast up to Haida Gwaii, with wind speeds reaching up to 90 km/h and gusts up to 120 km/h in exposed coastal areas.

The federal forecaster also warned of heavy rain on western Vancouver Island, Metro Vancouver’s North Shore, northern Coquitlam, and Maple Ridge, with up to 100 millimetres of rain expected. In addition, a brief period of wet snow may occur over higher terrain above 300 metres elevation, creating slippery conditions in some areas.

Another storm is expected to arrive overnight, bringing widespread strong winds that will persist for a long duration. While rain and wind are expected to ease in Metro Vancouver by midday on Boxing Day, residents are cautioned about localized flooding and potential power outages due to the storm.

On Christmas Eve, B.C. Ferries preemptively cancelled most daytime sailings on major routes between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Trips to and from smaller islands and across inlets on the South Coast were also affected by the cancellations. For up-to-date information on coastal ferry disruptions, passengers are advised to visit the B.C. Ferries service notices page.

The current storm is the second in a series of three weather systems hitting the province this week. Kelly Greene, the province’s emergency management minister, highlighted the increasing strength of these storms due to climate change. She emphasized the importance of updating flood mapping and preparing for different hazards as extreme weather patterns become more common.

Residents are urged to check road conditions, allow extra commuting time, and ensure they have access to emergency resources during this stormy period. Despite the storms, much of the South Coast and B.C. Interior are experiencing warmer-than-usual temperatures, leading to a lack of a “white Christmas” in many areas. Climate change is cited as a significant factor contributing to the unseasonably warm winter.

In conclusion, B.C. Ferries cancelled trips between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island due to a severe windstorm, with Environment Canada issuing wind warnings and heavy rain alerts for the region. Residents are advised to stay informed, prepare for potential hazards, and adapt to the changing weather patterns influenced by climate change.