A coastal flooding statement is in effect for much of Vancouver Island this weekend, as high tides and a low-pressure system is expected to cause some flooding in low-lying coastal areas. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Jordan Davidson

really high tides

Coastal flooding possible this weekend across Vancouver Island

Jan 2, 2026 | 4:38 PM

NANAIMO — Environment Canada is warning about the risk of coastal flooding this weekend across much of Vancouver Island, issuing a coastal flooding statement Friday afternoon.

The weather agency says elevated water levels, along with strong winds caused by a low-pressure system crossing the region, are leading to a risk of coastal flooding for much of Coastal B.C.

As of Friday afternoon, the statement was in effect for Vancouver Island from Sayward south to Victoria, and back up the west side of the Island to Nootka Sound.

Nanaimo was spared from the warning for most of Friday, but was included in the weather statement by 5:00 p.m. (Environment Canada)

Meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada Ken Dosanjh says the weekend weather system coincides with an atmospheric event, increasing the flooding concern.

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“We are at a point where the Earth is getting closest to the sun, so during that timeframe, we are seeing abnormally high tides, and in conjunction with the southeast winds, the tidal aspect will be a bit stronger than what is typically normal. Generally wet, windy for the weekend.”

They say the exact timing of the warning is uncertain at this time, with Sunday predicted to be the day with the highest risk.

The current predicted wind strength for the weekend is low for now.

They’re warning coastal residents to be aware of debris being washed ashore or erosion along the coast, with minor to moderate coastal flooding likely along low-lying shorelines.

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