Special weather alert: Thunderstorms, large hail expected across B.C. tonight

Lightning illuminates the Vancouver skyline during a previous thunderstorm. Similar conditions are expected tonight. Photo: Vancouver Is Awesome

Batten down the hatches: Environment Canada has issued a special weather alert for Metro Vancouver and other parts of British Columbia as a powerful storm system moves into the region tonight, March 26, 2025.

The weather agency warns residents to prepare for heavy downpours, thunderstorms, and potentially large hail as an unusual weather system rolls across the Lower Mainland and surrounding areas.

Rare event

Meteorologists are describing this as a rare weather event for coastal British Columbia, which typically doesn't experience the kind of severe thunderstorm activity more common in other parts of Canada.

"This is a significant weather event for the region," said meteorologist Sarah Chen with Environment Canada. "We're expecting rainfall amounts that could exceed 40 millimetres in some locations, particularly if thunderstorms develop."

The storm system, which has already triggered severe weather warnings in neighbouring Washington and Oregon states, is expected to intensify as it moves northward into British Columbia this evening.

The special weather statement covers:

• Metro Vancouver

• Fraser Valley

• Howe Sound

• Whistler

• Sea-to-Sky Highway

• Sunshine Coast

• Eastern Vancouver Island

Timing and impacts

The most severe weather is forecast to begin around 8 p.m. and continue through the overnight hours, with conditions gradually improving by Thursday morning.

Wind gusts could reach up to 80 km/h in exposed coastal areas, potentially causing power outages and downed tree limbs. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items and prepare for possible service disruptions.

"The combination of saturated ground from recent rainfall and these strong winds creates an elevated risk for falling trees," Chen explained. "Drivers should be particularly cautious on roads tonight."

Officials warn the storm system could cause:

• Localized flooding in low-lying areas

• Reduced visibility for drivers during heavy downpours

• Power outages from lightning strikes or wind damage

• Potential property damage from hail or strong winds

BC Hydro crews are on standby to respond to any power outages that may occur. The utility company reminds residents to stay at least 10 meters away from any downed power lines and to report them immediately by calling 911.

Weather radar showing the low-pressure system expected to bring thunderstorms to B.C. on March 26, 2025. Image: The Weather Network

Throwing caution into the wind

This storm system represents an unusual meteorological pattern for the Pacific Northwest in late March. Similar systems have produced damaging winds and large hail across Washington state, with some areas reporting hailstones larger than golf balls.

The weather agency notes that while thunderstorms are relatively rare in coastal British Columbia, climate patterns this spring have created conditions favourable for more severe weather events.

This weather system follows an unusually warm period for March in British Columbia, with temperatures running 5 to 10 degrees above seasonal averages earlier this week.

Safety precautions

Emergency Management BC advises residents to take precautions ahead of the storm:

• Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could be blown around

• Clear gutters and drains to prevent water buildup

• Have emergency supplies ready, including flashlights, batteries, and water

• Avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm

• Stay indoors when thunder roars

  to report them immediately by calling 911.

  

  Hail damage on a vehicle from a severe storm. Insurance experts advise residents to park in covered areas if possible. Photo: Rates.ca

"We're asking everyone to take this alert seriously," said Vancouver emergency management coordinator James Wilson. "Have flashlights and emergency supplies ready in case of power outages, and stay away from downed power lines."

"When thunder and lightning are present, the safest place to be is indoors," Wilson added. "If you're caught outside during a thunderstorm, avoid open areas, tall isolated objects like trees, and water."

Residents are also advised to clear storm drains near their properties to help prevent localized flooding from the heavy rainfall.

The public can stay updated on changing conditions through Environment Canada's weather alerts system, the WeatherCAN app, or by visiting weather.gc.ca for the latest alerts and forecasts.

"This system will move through relatively quickly," Chen said. "But it has the potential to cause significant impacts during its peak intensity tonight."

Will this weather alert impact your evening plans?