Winds have been picking up across Vancouver Island throughout the day.
Environment Canada currently has a special weather statement in effect for Greater Victoria as well as the eastern island and western island coast.
Southeastern winds have been blowing all day on Friday and are expected to continue through to Saturday morning.
These strong winds will affect Greater Victoria, the Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast, East Vancouver Island, and West Vancouver Island.
Wind speeds will reach 50 km/h gusting to 70 km/h for Greater Victoria and 70 km/h gusting to 90 km/h for West Vancouver Island.
“Another low pressure system offshore will bring strong southeast winds again for exposed coastal sections near western Vancouver Island, Strait of Georgia, and Haro Strait this afternoon to Saturday morning,” Environment Canada said in a statement.
“Peak winds are expected tonight. Winds will ease on Saturday morning.”
Intermittent strong winds will continue through the weekend until Monday afternoon
During high wind events like this, it is important to keep in mind that loose objects can be tossed around, tree branches may break causing damages and power outages are possible.
Northern Vancouver Island also has a weather warning in effect for high winds.
In communities north of Courtenay and Comox, southeastern winds will be 90 km/h gusting up to 110 km/h. These severe winds are expected to weaken through the evening as the weather system moves out of the region.
Remote communities are encouraged to have back-up or generator power ready in case of power outages.
