Fall storm could bring 'hurricane force' winds to B.C.

Experts say atmospheric river is slamming into BC, could cause serious damage

Residents are being warned to prepare for possible power outages and flooding

A powerful fall storm is expected to hit British Columbia on Tuesday, bringing with it the potential for "hurricane force" winds and heavy rain.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for much of the province, including Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley. The storm is expected to intensify as it moves inland from the Pacific Ocean, with winds gusting up to 120 km/h in some areas.

The storm is being fuelled by an atmospheric river, a narrow band of concentrated moisture that stretches from the tropics to the mid-latitudes. Atmospheric rivers can carry vast amounts of water vapour, which can lead to heavy rainfall and flooding.

In addition to the strong winds, the storm is also expected to bring heavy rain to many parts of the province. Environment Canada is forecasting rainfall amounts of 50 to 100 millimetres in some areas, with higher amounts possible over the mountains.

The storm is expected to hit the province late Tuesday morning and continue into Wednesday. Residents are being warned to prepare for possible power outages and flooding.

BC Hydro is urging customers to be prepared for outages and to have an emergency plan in place.

The River Forecast Centre has issued a high streamflow advisory for the Fraser Valley and the North Shore. Residents in these areas are being warned to be prepared for possible flooding.

The storm is expected to weaken as it moves inland, but it is still likely to cause significant damage. Residents are being urged to take precautions and to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts.