'Bomb cyclone' set to lash B.C. coast with hurricane-force winds

Prepare for power outages, flooding and road closures

Environment Canada has issued special weather statements and warnings

A powerful and potentially damaging "bomb cyclone" is expected to hit the B.C. coast on Tuesday, bringing with it hurricane-force winds, heavy rain and snow, and the risk of flooding and power outages.

Environment Canada has issued special weather statements and warnings for much of the province, including Metro Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, the Central Coast and Haida Gwaii.

The storm is expected to intensify rapidly as it approaches the coast, with wind gusts of up to 110 kilometres per hour possible in some areas. The strongest winds are expected in exposed coastal areas, such as the Strait of Georgia, Howe Sound and Hecate Strait.

The heavy rain and snow could also lead to flooding and mudslides, especially in areas that are already saturated from recent heavy rainfall.

BC Hydro is warning customers to be prepared for power outages, and is urging people to have an emergency plan in place.

The storm is expected to hit the B.C. coast on Tuesday afternoon and evening, and is forecast to last into Wednesday.

Environment Canada is advising people to stay indoors during the storm, and to avoid travel if possible.

For the latest weather updates, visit the Environment Canada website.