Weather Network warns of ‘Bomb Cyclone’ heading for Vancouver Island this week

The Weather Network is warning BC, including Vancouver Island residents, to brace for a rapidly intensifying storm that could bring hazardous conditions starting late Tuesday into Wednesday.

This powerful low-pressure system is expected to develop west of Vancouver Island and may qualify as a “bomb cyclone”—a term used to describe storms that undergo rapid intensification, resulting in severe weather impacts like extreme rainfall and damaging winds.

“All the ingredients are coming together for a formidable storm to develop west of Vancouver Island late Tuesday,” the Weather Network

What to expect:

• Winds will intensify through Tuesday night, with gusts ranging from 90–100 km/h across the Strait of Georgia and coastal Vancouver Island. Some areas may see even higher gusts as forecasters refine their models. This will be a long-duration wind event, with impacts likely extending into Wednesday, causing ferry delays or cancellations.

• Rainfall totals could exceed 100 mm for western Vancouver Island near Tofino, while areas along the South Coast can expect 30–50 mm.

• Elevated tides from this week’s king tide cycle will coincide with the storm’s peak on Wednesday morning. Communities like Victoria and Campbell River may face localized flooding due to storm surges.

• Widespread power outages are possible as high winds could damage power lines. Residents are advised to prepare for potential electricity disruptions.

While this storm is expected to remain offshore and spare the Pacific Northwest from its worst impacts, it bears some resemblance to the historic storm of October 2021.

Residents are urged to take precautions as the region faces another intense weather system.

A special weather statement remains in place for Greater Victoria as Environment Canada warns of elevated ocean water levels combined with strong winds and significant waves.

The conditions are expected to peak near high tide on Sunday, which is forecast to occur around midday.

The affected areas include shorelines along the Juan de Fuca Strait, encompassing Port Renfrew, Esquimalt, Sooke, and Victoria.

The weather agency notes that a combination of seasonably high tides, storm surge, strong westerly winds, and large waves could lead to high water levels during Sunday’s high tide.

As a result, coastal flooding is possible in exposed and low-lying areas.