Severe Winds Cause Widespread Power Outages
A bomb cyclone has battered the British Columbia coast, causing massive disruptions and leaving thousands without power. Winds as strong as 159 km/h slammed Vancouver Island and other areas on Tuesday, 19 November, with the effects continuing into Wednesday.
BC Hydro reported that over 225,000 customers faced blackouts due to the storm. The BC Hydro outage map revealed widespread outages, with most concentrated on Vancouver Island, Metro Vancouver, and the Sunshine Coast.
Cyclone Bomb Brings Hurricane-Force Winds
The bomb cyclone, a weather system characterised by a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure, created hurricane-force winds. Remote Sartine Island, off northern Vancouver Island, recorded gusts equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane.
Environment Canada noted winds exceeding 100 km/h across several areas, including gusts approaching 80 km/h at Vancouver’s airport. Coastal regions, especially the central and northern coasts, braced for sustained winds up to 120 km/h.
Also Read: SpaceX Aborts Starship Booster Catch in Ocean Splashdown
Transportation Disrupted Amid Dangerous Conditions
The storm severed highways and disrupted transportation across British Columbia. The Ministry of Transportation closed multiple Vancouver Island highways due to downed power lines, fallen trees, and debris. More closures were anticipated as conditions worsened.
BC Ferries cancelled several sailings between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland on Tuesday. It also warned passengers of further disruptions throughout Wednesday due to dangerous winds and rough seas.
Nanaimo and Gabriola Island Hit Hard
In Nanaimo, nearly 13,000 customers were left in darkness, according to BC Hydro’s outage map. The hardest-hit area included College Drive, Dockside Way, Mallard Drive, and Wall Street, affecting 3,977 customers.
On Gabriola Island, over 2,300 residents experienced power outages south of Berry Point Road and east of the Descanso Bay ferry terminal.
BC Hydro advised residents to turn off electric heaters and appliances during outages. It urged people to check on elderly friends and family members.
Coastal Flooding and Storm Safety Warnings
Environment Canada issued weather warnings for elevated ocean levels and dangerous waves. Minor flooding was reported near coastal areas as waves exceeded the highest astronomical tide.
City officials in Nanaimo urged residents to clear leaves and debris from storm drains to reduce the risk of flooding. Rainfall further complicated recovery efforts in storm-hit regions.
Power Restoration Efforts Underway
BC Hydro teams faced challenges restoring power due to ongoing hazardous conditions. As of Tuesday night, there was no estimate for full power restoration. Customers were advised to prepare for overnight outages.
Hydro crews worked diligently to clear power lines and repair infrastructure despite the severe weather. Updates will follow as the storm progresses and conditions improve.
Cyclone Bomb Vancouver Impact Widens
The bomb cyclone’s reach extended beyond Vancouver Island. Metro Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast also reported dozens of power outages, with winds causing widespread disruption.
Experts noted that bomb cyclones are rare but increasingly impactful weather phenomena. The intense storm demonstrated the need for robust infrastructure and disaster preparedness in coastal regions.
Residents Urged to Stay Safe
Authorities reminded residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during the peak of the storm. With wind speeds expected to ease by Wednesday afternoon, recovery efforts could accelerate.
The powerful cyclone bomb that impacted Vancouver Island serves as a stark reminder of the destructive potential of extreme weather. Residents are advised to monitor updates and prioritise safety as the region recovers.
Worst Storms in the History of Canada
Canada has faced extreme weather events with devastating impacts. In 2016, the Fort McMurray Wildfires caused $9.9 billion in damages, displacing 88,000 people. The Southern Alberta Floods of 2013 killed five and caused $1.7 billion in losses. In 2003, Hurricane Juan struck Halifax with 157 km/h winds, causing $300 million in damage. The 1998 Ice Storm left four million without power, resulting in $5.4 billion in losses and 35 fatalities. The Pollux-Truxtun Disaster of 1942 claimed over 200 lives during a blinding snowstorm. These events highlight Canada’s vulnerability to severe weather, from hurricanes and wildfires to freezing rain and flooding, demonstrating the need for robust disaster preparedness and climate resilience.