Dark skies across the mid-Island led to an intense thunderstorm late in the day on Sunday, Aug. 18. Similar conditions are expected Wednesday. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

summer storm

Heavy rain, thunderstorms expected across portions of mid-Island

Aug 21, 2024 | 10:11 AM

NANAIMO — A special weather statement has been issued for the Oceanside area ahead of a storm system moving its way through.

Environment Canada’s statement, published early Wednesday, Aug. 21, warns “a trough of low pressure” is forecast to bring “rain and thunderstorms to northern and central east Vancouver Island” in the afternoon and evening hours.

Meteorologist Colin Tam said rainfall began across northern Vancouver Island in the early morning hours and is expected to intensify throughout the day.

“We’re expecting rain…easing overnight with the heaviest timing late [Wednesday] afternoon through the earlier part of the evening when the chance of thunderstorms will combine with the rain.”

Environment Canada’s radar from around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21, showing steady precipitation hitting Campbell River and the Comox Valley. (Environment Canada)

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The special weather statement extends from Nanoose in the south to Sayward in the north.

Tam said local, heavy rain could cause some issues on area roadways with water pooling on the road a distinct possibility.

He advised caution for area travellers.

“Rainfall rates are expected to be highly variable depending on if you’re in a thunderstorm or not, but we’re expecting total amounts ranging from 30 to 50 millimetres by overnight [Wednesday].”

Forecasts for the Nanaimo and Oceanside regions call for rainfall into Thursday morning before clearing into Friday.

More rain is expected over the weekend.

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