This map, courtesy of BC Hydro shows power outages in Saanich as of 8:23 a.m. Sunday morning. Wind warnings are in effect for coastal regions of Greater Victoria with winds expected to reach speeds of 80 km/hr. Screenshot

This map, courtesy of BC Hydro shows power outages in Saanich as of 8:23 a.m. Sunday morning. Wind warnings are in effect for coastal regions of Greater Victoria with winds expected to reach speeds of 80 km/hr. Screenshot

Wind warning in effect for Greater Victoria

Strong winds could reach up to 80 km/hr along coastal areas

  • Jan. 21, 2018 12:00 a.m.

A wind warning is in effect for parts of east Vancouver Island as winds pick up speed and expect to hit 80 km/hr in some coastal regions.

A warning issued from Environment Canada said a Pacific frontal system is moving slowly across the south coast. Ahead of the front, strong southeast winds will reach speeds up to 80 km/hr, especially over exposed coastal areas. Affected areas include Campbell River, Courtenay, and Nanaimo and Greater Victoria.

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In Oak Bay and Saanich, an estimated 2,000 customers are currently experiencing a power outage. In Langford, crews are working to restore power to 760 customers.

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In a statement, BC Hydro said there are presently 65,000 customers across B.C. are without power and outages are expected to increase until the winds decrease.

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On the Island, winds are expected to ease to around 30 to 50 km/hr later this morning. In Sidney this morning, waves crashed right up onto the sidewalk near Tulista Park.

Wind warnings are issued when there is a significant risk of damage; loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds.

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BC Ferries has reported multiple cancellations on various routes as well as significant delays. Check for updates at BCFerries.com.

More to come…

kristyn.anthony@vicnews.com

Victoria News