Power has been restored to most customers after a windstorm hit the Lower Mainland, BC Hydro said Monday (March 29)
More than 51,000 customers were without power after strong winds battered the Lower Mainland on Sunday, but by the next morning that number had dropped to 2,280.
A wind warning was in effect for Metro Vancouver and the eastern Fraser Valley had buckled up for snow on Sunday.
According to Environment Canada, an intense Pacific cold front moved across the south coast on Sunday afternoon, leading the morning’s strong southerly winds to shift to strong northwest ones.
That weather shift brought northwest winds of 70 kilometres per hour and gusts up to 90 kilometres expected near the water late Sunday. Residents were urged to batten down loose objects and are warned that roof shingles and windows could be damaged by the wind.
The wind warning will lessen to a special weather statement for the Fraser Valley
Wind was expected to ease on Sunday night as a ridge of high pressure builds over the region.
Further east, snow was expected along the Coquihalla Highway between Hope and Merritt and Highway 3 from Hope to Princeton via Allison Pass.
Environment Canada said a spring storm system would bring between 15 and 25 centimetres of snow and gusty winds to high elevation passes throughout Sunday and into the night. Initially, snow levels will be nearer to the summits but are expected to drop through the morning.
Drivers were warned to adjust to driving conditions and localized areas of blowing snow that could lead to reduced visibility.
Winter tires are required on most B.C. highways up until March 31 with chains mandatory for heavy commercial vehicles. For more information visit shiftintowinter.ca.
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