Rainfall warning issued for Metro Vancouver, Sunshine Coast

Environment Canada has issued a rainfall warning for Metro Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast. The warning predicts that up to 110 millimeters of rain could hit the region starting Saturday night. The warning affects northern and eastern parts of Metro Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, and the Fraser Valley, including Abbotsford. Rain is expected to start overnight and continue until Monday afternoon. Higher elevations, especially around the North Shore mountains, could see even more precipitation, while much of Metro Vancouver might receive between 60 and 90 millimeters. Colin Fong, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, explained that the heavy rain will continue through Sunday night. The system bringing the rain is called an atmospheric river. This weather pattern, although weaker than usual, is expected to linger over the South Coast for about 24 hours. Next week, the region will experience the first signs of spring as temperatures rise after the rain. Tuesday and Wednesday could see highs near 15 degrees Celsius, along with rising freezing levels that increase the risk of avalanches. Avalanche Canada has issued a special public avalanche warning for areas like Yoho and Kootenay national parks. The warning is due to unstable snow conditions. Forecasters advise that backcountry visitors should be cautious and prepared for changing conditions. The avalanche risk in the South Coast is currently rated as "considerable" and may increase with the incoming rain and higher temperatures.