Heavy rain and snow expected in British Columbia

An atmospheric river is set to impact British Columbia starting this Sunday. The storm is expected to bring over 100 mm of rain and up to 50 cm of snow in higher elevations. This weather pattern will create a 36-hour rainfall event for some areas, starting early Sunday and lasting through Monday evening. British Columbia has experienced a series of storms, and this latest system is classified as a Category 2 or 3 atmospheric river. Although heavy rain is expected, it is not anticipated to cause significant flooding because it won't linger in one place for too long. The snow is likely to fall in higher elevations above 1,000-1,200 meters. However, as temperatures rise early in the week, the freezing levels could reach up to 3,000 meters. This could lead to increased river flows due to melting snow. A special avalanche warning is currently in effect for the central Rockies, including Kootenay National Park, due to heavy, wet snow. While the rain poses risks such as localized flooding and travel delays, there is also the chance that temperatures in some parts of B.C. may reach 20°C for the first time this year. Kamloops and Abbotsford have already recorded high temperatures of 17.4°C and 16.9°C, respectively. Vancouver is expected to see its warmest day of the year, with a forecasted high of 19°C on Wednesday. Residents are advised to stay safe during the expected heavy rainfall, especially near fast-moving streams and rivers.