B.C.'s 1st 'fall storm' could bring 'onslaught' of rain to parts of coast: Environment Canada

B.C.'s 1st 'fall storm' could bring 'onslaught' of rain to parts of coast: Environment Canada

Alerts in place for North, Central coast and western Vancouver Island

It might still be summer, but Environment Canada is warning that the first "fall storm" of the season is closing in on parts of the British Columbia coast.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow rainfall warning for western Vancouver Island, forecasting rainfall of 100 millimetres or more in northern sections near Zeballos.

Special weather statements are also in place for the North and Central coasts.

More stories from Vancouver Island

Environment Canada meteorologist Chloe Katsademas said a low-pressure system was spinning off B.C.'s North Coast on Tuesday and was expected to make its way southward as the day progressed.

"There's going to be quite an onslaught of rainfall," she said.

"It could lead to sudden rises in stream levels because that heavy rainfall could be quite intense in some areas."

Katsademas said the heaviest rain is expected between Kitimat and Bella Bella, and on the northern and western parts of Vancouver Island.

More stories from Northern B.C.

Environment Canada is warning of the potential for landslides and localized water-pooling or flooding, especially in impacted areas facing prolonged drought.

Exposed coastal areas could also see strong southerly gusts, peaking on Tuesday night and dying down Wednesday morning.

Katsademas said the wet weather is forecast to move onto the mainland in the coming days, but not with the same level of intensity.