Wind warnings are in effect for parts of the Island, including Oceanside, while strong rain batters the region as well. (Environment Canada)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

wind storm

Strong winds for Nanaimo & Oceanside regions bring potential for damage, power outages

Dec 27, 2023 | 9:35 AM

NANAIMO — Strong winds and driving rain are set to hit the region hard over the coming days.

Environment Canada has issued wind warnings for a majority of Vancouver Island, including the west coast and Oceanside regions, warning of wind gusts over 100 kilometres per hour.

“An intense Pacific frontal system will remain off the BC coast today through Friday,” a warning for the Oceanside region read. “The strongest winds will occur this morning with gusts to 120 kilometres per hour over exposed coastal sections.”

Conditions are expected to taper Wednesday evening, but restrengthen into Thursday, Dec. 28.

The winds, however, aren’t the only issue Environment Canada is tracking.

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Both the Island’s west coast and Victoria region are expecting strong sea swells to combine with the wind, creating waves between five to seven metres, particularly around high tide early Wednesday afternoon.

“These waves can cause damage to coastal infrastructure, especially at locations that have been prone to impacts during similar events in the past.”

As of mid-morning on Wednesday, there were no substantial power outages on the mid-Island as a result of the winds and travel aboard BC Ferries was proceeding as scheduled.

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