Ladysmith and Chemainus residents are bracing for strong winds forecasted for east Vancouver Island later today which could cause damage and power outages.
Environment Canada issued a weather alert shortly before 5 a.m. on Friday.
“A strong low pressure system will approach Vancouver Island today bringing strong southeast winds to the South Coast,” the weather agency said.
“Winds are forecast to rise to 70 km/h over Greater Victoria and Southern Gulf Islands late this morning and spread to east Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast this afternoon.”
The wind will die off overnight as the low moves across northwestern Vancouver Island.
Loose objects may be tossed by the wind and cause injury or damage.
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.
To report severe weather, send an email to ec.tempetepacifique-pacificstorm.ec@canada.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm.