Cyclone forming off the coast of British Columbia

Environment Canada says the storm could bring heavy rain, snow, and wind to the province

The storm is expected to develop into a tropical cyclone by Wednesday

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is tracking a developing cyclone off the coast of British Columbia. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain, snow, and wind to the province, and could potentially develop into a tropical cyclone by Wednesday.

ECCC has issued a rainfall warning for the central and north coasts of B.C., with up to 100 mm of rain possible in some areas. The agency is also warning of snow at higher elevations, with up to 30 cm possible in some areas.

The storm is expected to make landfall on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning. ECCC is advising residents to be prepared for power outages and other disruptions. The agency is also urging people to stay away from the coast during the storm, as there is a risk of flooding and landslides.

Cyclones are common in the Pacific Ocean, but they are relatively rare in B.C. The last time a cyclone made landfall in the province was in 2006.

ECCC is urging residents to stay informed about the storm and to follow the advice of local officials.

A cyclone is a large-scale, rotating storm system that forms over warm ocean waters. Cyclones are often associated with heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding.

Cyclones are classified into two types: tropical cyclones and extratropical cyclones.

• Tropical cyclones form over warm ocean waters near the equator. They are characterized by a warm core, a low-pressure center, and a spiral rainband pattern.
• Extratropical cyclones form over cooler ocean waters at higher latitudes. They are characterized by a cold core, a low-pressure center, and a frontal system.

The terms "cyclone" and "hurricane" are often used interchangeably, but there is a technical difference between the two.

A hurricane is a tropical cyclone that has sustained winds of at least 119 km/h. Cyclones that have sustained winds of less than 119 km/h are called tropical depressions or tropical storms.

Cyclones are caused by the interaction between the ocean and the atmosphere.

When warm, moist air from the ocean rises, it cools and condenses, releasing energy. This energy powers the cyclone's winds and rain.

Cyclones can have a devastating impact on coastal communities.

The strong winds and heavy rain can cause flooding, landslides, and power outages. The storm surge can also cause extensive damage to property and infrastructure.

There are a number of things we can do to prepare for cyclones.

• Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and warnings.
• Have an emergency plan in place and know what to do in the event of a cyclone.
• Secure your home and property from wind damage.
• Stock up on food, water, and other essential supplies.
• Be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Cyclones are a powerful force of nature, but there are a number of things we can do to prepare for them and reduce their impact.

By staying informed, having an emergency plan in place, and taking the necessary precautions, we can help to keep our communities safe from the devastating effects of cyclones.