Another winter storm forecast for B.C., with wind, snow and rain warnings in effect

It's winter so expect winter weather.

Environment Canada has issued weather warnings for much of B.C. on Wednesday, asa Pacific frontal system is expected to bring heavy rain to the South Coast and snowfall to many areas of the province,including along the Coquihallaand Sea to Sky highways.

High winds are also forecast for areas of Vancouver Island, the Central Coastand the Sunshine Coast.

The wild weather follows what BC Hydro has dubbed the most damaging storm in the utility's history on Dec. 20, when 750,000 customers were left without power.

Rain

Vancouver Island residents can expect a lot of rain before Thursday afternoon, withup to 150 millimetres forecast for the west of the island and up to 100 millimetresfor the east.

That rain will turn to snow in higher elevation areas, such as the Sutton Pass between Port Alberni and Tofino, where snow is already accumulating.

In Metro Vancouver, 30 millimetresof rain could fall before tapering to showers Thursday. Near the North Shore mountains, up to 80 millimetresof rainfall is expected.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and Environment Canada warns this can lead to water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible, the agency says.

Snow

Snowfall is expected in the Fraser Canyon and Fraser Valley, as well as much of the Interior and northern regions of the province.Up to 35 centimetres of snow could fall in the Fraser Canyon and Fraser Valley by Thursday. Snow and freezing rain arealso expected for the Howe Sound area and Whistler.

A winter storm warning for Whistler and Howe Sound and the Fraser Valley says drivers should prepare for quickly changing travel conditions on provincialhighways.

Road conditions are available atdrivebc.ca.

Wind

Strong winds are also expected to blow through B.C. today. Gusts of up to 90 km/h are forecast for the Central Coast and East Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast will see winds up to 70 km/h.

According to Environment Canada, the wind could lead to flying debris and cause damage to buildings.

A complete list of weather warnings are available on Environment Canada's website.