Environment Canada is warning of high winds creating massive waves and possible storm surges along the west coast of the Island on Monday. West winds of 80 kilometres an hour, gusting to 100 km/h, could create waves reaching up to 12 metres in the Tofino-Ucluelet area by Monday afternoon, the agency said. “Very strong west winds and high waves may inundate low-lying shoreline and beaches, and dangerous storm surges are possible,” Environment Canada said. A low-pressure system offshore will bring very strong winds toward the western Vancouver Island coast beginning late Monday morning. The direction of the wind will result in unusually high waves hitting the shore Monday afternoon and evening. The wind is expected shift to the northwest at 70 km/h, gusting to 90, late Monday evening and slowly ease through the night. The agency is warning people to stay well back from the water’s edge and to be alert for exceptionally high waves. Higher than normal water run-up is expected on beaches and low-lying shorelines. “Water running up on the beach can easily lift or roll logs which can injure someone caught in their path,” said Environment Canada. Damage to buildings, such as to roof shingles and windows, may also occur. High winds may toss loose objects or cause tree branches to break. Be prepared to adjust your driving with changing road conditions due to high winds. A heavy rainfall warning is still in effect for areas near Zeballos and Tahsis through to Monday morning. Some regions of the North Island have also experienced snowfall at higher elevations. More than 100 mm of rain is forecast by Monday morning. Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads, so drivers are urged to take extra precautions.
