High river warnings were issued along the coast of British Columbia, Canada

The British Columbia River Forecast Centre has issued a high river flow warning for the entire British Columbia coast, with a series of atmospheric rivers expected to hit British Columbia, Canada. The warning includes the south and north coasts, the northern and western parts of Vancouver Island, and Haida Gwaii.

The agency's flood warning said that river levels in these areas could rise rapidly. There is no significant risk of major flooding, but minor flooding may occur in low-lying areas.

The forecast center said moderate to heavy rainfall is possible over the next few days. With temperatures relatively high, additional water will be added to rivers as snow melts, which is called the rain-on-snow effect. The North Coast, Haida Gwaii, Central Coast, and Vancouver Island are expected to see the most rain from Saturday to Sunday. The South Coast and Lower Mainland are likely to see heavy rain from Sunday afternoon to Monday.

River levels in the north could peak over the weekend. Vancouver Island and the south coast could see that time Sunday through Monday. The forecast center says, "Extra caution is needed through the weekend and into Monday as this weather pattern could increase the risk of flooding."

Emergency Info: British Columbia residents are being told to stay away from unstable riverbanks.

Meanwhile, Environment Canada has issued rain and storm warnings for several areas on the North Coast, including Prince Rupert, Kitimat and Terrace, from Friday to Saturday.

During this time, 50 to 100 millimeters of rain may fall. Earlier, 5 to 10 centimeters of snow fell on the inner parts of Highways 16 and 37 and around the terraces.

The agency said an atmospheric river is currently affecting the north coast, which could bring significant rainfall within 24 to 36 hours. Due to relatively cold temperatures in inland areas, a mix of rain and snow will initially be seen, but it will later turn into full-blown rain.

Strong winds are possible in open coastal areas of Haida Gwaii, the North and Central Coasts, and North Vancouver Island. Wind speeds may reach 80 to 100 kilometres per hour, with speeds of up to 120 kilometres per hour in some areas.

Environment Canada also warned of the risk of power outages. Residents are being urged to secure loose items and stay away from downed power lines.

There is also a chance of heavy snowfall in the inland areas of the North Coast, particularly in the Stewart region. However, that snow could gradually turn to rain over the weekend.