Power outages likely as 'bomb cyclone' forms off B.C. coast, meteorologist says
Wind warnings cover all of coastal B.C., with forecasters saying wind gusts could reach 120 km/h
Kkritika Suri
Forecasters are issuing warnings about hurricane-force winds as a "bomb cyclone" forms off Vancouver Island’s coast late Tuesday.
A cyclone occurs when masses of warm and cold air collide, creating spiraling winds. The term "bomb" refers to a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure of more than 24 millibars within 24 hours. The storm forming 400 kilometers west of Tofino, B.C., is expected to experience an unusual 60-millibar pressure drop over the same period.
Wind warnings across B.C.
Environment Canada has issued wind warnings for the entire B.C. coastline, predicting wind speeds of 90 km/h, with gusts up to 120 km/h, starting Tuesday afternoon. Brian Proctor, a meteorologist with the agency, explained that strong easterly winds would affect coastal valleys, accompanied by outflow winds from the Interior due to the powerful low-pressure system offshore.
"We're likely to see power outages, and it wouldn’t be surprising if B.C. Ferries suspends some services during the afternoon and evening," said Proctor.
Armel Castellan, another meteorologist, noted that the strong outflow winds from the Interior are the season’s first, warranting caution. “The trees lining power cables and transmission lines are going to be tested in a new way,” Castellan warned, highlighting potential risks to infrastructure.
Rain, snow, and coastal impact
In addition to high winds, the bomb cyclone is expected to bring rain and snow to coastal B.C., though not in amounts comparable to the atmospheric river that caused flash floods in October. Proctor added that if the storm’s trajectory shifted eastward, the inner South Coast and Vancouver Island would face significant impacts.
This marks the second major windstorm in a week for B.C.’s South Coast. The previous storm on November 12 left hundreds of thousands without power.
Maritime precautions
Cliff Mass, an atmospheric sciences professor at the University of Washington, described the storm’s wind speeds as "hurricane-force," warning that the storm would affect the entire West Coast of North America, reaching as far south as California. "No ship should go through the Strait of Juan de Fuca tomorrow," Mass cautioned.
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority has taken preventive measures, coordinating with shipping companies to secure anchorages for vessels. "Given it’s peak export season, anchorages are being fully utilized to provide a safe place for ships to wait out the storm," said Sean Baxter, the port's harbor master.
Preparing for the storm
As the bomb cyclone approaches, officials and forecasters urge residents and industries to prepare for potential disruptions, including power outages and transport delays. The storm is expected to peak on Tuesday night, with its effects felt across the coastal region.
