A rainfall warning is advising of upwards of 50 millimetres of rain falling in a short span of time, beginning Tuesday, Dec. 17. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

winter rains

Rainfall warning issued for Nanaimo ahead of ‘moisture-laden’ storm

Dec 17, 2024 | 9:55 AM

NANAIMO — The first in a series of storms this week is bringing significant rainfall.

Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning for eastern Vancouver Island, including Nanaimo, Parksville and Qualicum Beach, on Tuesday, Dec. 17, advising of heavy rain over the next 24 hours.

“A moisture-laden Pacific frontal system will bring rain to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands,” the advisory read. “The rain, at times heavy, will begin this morning and will ease early Wednesday morning as the frontal system departs.”

Approximately 50 millimetres of rain is expected through to Wednesday, Dec. 18.

The warning extends from Victoria to Cumberland and was issued in conjunction with a similar warning issued for western Vancouver Island, where 100 millimetres of rain is expected.

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“High streamflows and localized flooding are possible, particularly at lower elevations and in areas with poor drainage,” the warning continued. “Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads.”

High streamflow advisories from the B.C. River Forecast Centre are in effect for most of the southern half of Vancouver Island, including Cedar, Cassidy, and Ladysmith.

The advisory suggests “river levels are rising or expected to rise rapidly, but that no major flooding is expected”, according to the Centre.

It also notes “minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible”.

Conditions are expected to ease later in the week before more rain moves in for the weekend.

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