City prepares for possible flooding: residents in coastal and low-lying areas should stay alert

Wind conditions gusting up to 70 km/h are expected in the Vancouver area starting tonight. In addition to winds, a storm surge tomorrow and higher-than-normal tide are expected with moderate flooding risk for some low-lying coastal areas. High water levels are expected just before 10 am tomorrow, November 20, when high tide combined with storm surge of ocean water from the incoming storm is anticipated to raise the tide to above average levels.  

Environment Canada has issued a Special Weather Statement and a Weather Advisory External website, opens in new tab for Metro Vancouver. More intense winds generated by this rapidly deepening low pressure system are forecasted to mostly impact the west coast of Vancouver Island. 

Flood risk 

As a result of this weather event, low-lying areas in the floodplains will be at an elevated flood risk and may experience some overland flooding. This includes Southlands, the Fraser River floodplain, and Locarno and Spanish Banks.  
Residents are advised to monitor outdoor conditions, be cautious when near the water or floodplains and follow all closure signage.
 
To accommodate annual slope stabilization and tree removal work, the seawall between Third Beach and Prospect Point in Stanley Park is currently closed. Park visitors are reminded to exercise caution around the water’s edge and other sections of the seawall. 

City response 

The City’s response is guided by the weather. Staff are monitoring the weather and tides, and preparing for possible flooding impacts.

Engineering and Park Board staff are mobilizing to support essential infrastructure and services in the area. 

Updates will be shared on the City’s social media channels (X External website, opens in new tab, Threads External website, opens in new tab, Instagram External website, opens in new tab and Facebook External website, opens in new tab). 

What residents can do during a storm 

While Vancouver Island is expected to receive the majority of the impact from this storm, it is important to always be prepared for storms. Here are things you can do to prepare anytime there is a storm in the forecast. 

• Download the Alertable app to get notified quickly and directly about any emergencies near you. 
• Use the new interactive Hazard & Risk Explorer External website, opens in new tab to discover the coastal flooding risks where you live, work and spend time. Learn specific actions to prepare and steps the City is taking to mitigate and prepare for this hazard.  
• Clear catch basins of leaves and other debris if it is safe to do so. 
• High winds may cause power outages and fallen branches: 
  • Secure or bring loose objects inside 
  • If you see a downed powerline, stay 10 metres away and call 911 
  • Report fallen trees to 3-1-1 or via Van311. 
• Check the BC Hydro website for: 
  • Power outage map External website, opens in new tab
  • Information on preparing for power outages  External website, opens in new tab

Supporting residents with Extreme Weather Response (EWR) shelters 

The Extreme Weather Response (EWR) program, funded by the Province, has issued an extreme weather alert, which activated six EWR shelters through Homelessness Services Association of BC (HSABC) to help provide emergency shelter spaces for those experiencing unsheltered homelessness. A list of extra shelter spaces is available on Vancouver.ca in addition to the 1,400+ shelter spaces that are open nightly.