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Third storm heads for B.C. after weekend death, outages and evacuations

Third storm heads for B.C. after weekend death, outages and evacuations

A third storm system is forecast to move toward British Columbia after heavy rain and wind knocked out power and triggered evacuations over the weekend.

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Environment Canada has issued wind warnings and special weather statements predicting heavy rain across large parts of British Columbia over the next few days.

In Haida Gwaii and North Vancouver Island, heavy winds are expected into Monday afternoon, with gusts forecast up to 110 kilometres an hour.

A second low-pressure system is also expected to follow, with winds likely to reach warning criteria again.

A special weather statement covering most of B.C.’s coast and Vancouver Island says a “strong and potent” series of storms will approach the coast from Tuesday through Thursday, bringing heavy rain, particularly in upslope terrain and at higher elevations.

The rain event is expected to follow several low-pressure systems that have already drenched the region in recent days.

The wet weather left thousands without electricity and prompted an evacuation order for about 30 properties in the village of Zeballos on the northwest coast of Vancouver Island.

In Surrey, B.C., a driver died Saturday after two vehicles became trapped under a fallen tree.

Environment Canada says there is uncertainty about the exact amount of rain and which regions will be affected most, but some areas are expected to see gusty southerly winds.

It also warns that high precipitation could lead to water pooling in areas with poor drainage, worsening localized flooding concerns, particularly in communities already hit by significant rain.

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