Tens of thousands of BC Hydro customers on Vancouver Island were without power Wednesday morning, as Environment Canada forecasted wind gusts above 100 km/h.
Wednesday morning saw wind warnings for all areas of the island, except the inland area which was subject to a less severe special meteorological statement.
Environment Canada predicts that strong southeasterly winds will change to southwesterly winds by the afternoon, and continue into the night.
Winds blew a tree down on the Patricia Bay Highway, near Elk Lake, before 10 a.m. The B.C. The Ministry of Transportation warned of traffic congestion in the area while crews cleared the debris.
High winds threatened to cancel the arrival of a cruise ship that was due at Victoria’s Ogden Point Wednesday night.
The Norwegian Sun is pictured docked in Victorias Ogden Point on May 9, 20,22. (CTV News)
Brian Cant from the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority stated that the Norwegian Sun operators decided to cancel the arrival.
Cant stated in an email to CTV News that a vessel must be safe to tie up on a pier.
Environment Canada warned Wednesday morning that a strong low-pressure system, which is unseasonably strong, would make landfall on Vancouver Island this morning. It will bring strong southeasterly winds as well as precipitation to the area.
According to the weather agency, winds will shift to strong southwesterlies in the afternoon.
The storm was expected to hit the island’s western and northern regions, with winds gusts of up to 110 km/h. Greater Victoria and the eastern regions were forecast to experience gusts of up to 90 km/h.
BC Hydro reported that more than 15,000 customers in Victoria and the Gulf Islands region were without power at 11:30 a.m. 15,000 were without electricity on North Island.
On Wednesday morning, many of the outages were concentrated in the Nanaimo vicinity.
Environment Canada warned that buildings could be damaged by roof shingles or windows.
“High winds can toss or cause tree branches and other objects to fall. High winds can lead to power outages and the destruction of tree branches. High winds can cause changes in road conditions and force you to adjust your driving accordingly. Avoid areas with trees and branches to avoid injury. Campers should seek shelter in sturdy areas.
