Wind warnings in effect across B.C. coast, other areas of province

Wind warnings have been issued for several areas across British Columbia, including the B.C. Coast, sections of Vancouver Island, the Central Coast, and Haida Gwaii.

The heavy winds are related in part to the remnants of Typhoon Pulasan, Environment Canada says.

Winds of 90 kilometres per hour gusting to 120 km/h are possible through Thursday night.

“A deep low pressure system over offshore waters will move across southern Haida Gwaii this evening and onto the northern mainland coast overnight,” the warning says.

“Very strong, gusty southeasterly winds have developed ahead of the low affected areas from northern Vancouver Island to Haida Gwaii, including the Central Coast. To the south of the low, from about midnight to early Friday, there will also be a period of intense westerly winds.”

The wind is expected to diminish Friday morning.

“Gusty winds can damage soft shelters, tents and awnings at outdoor events,” Environment Canada warns.

“High winds may result in power outages and fallen tree branches. Utility outages may occur.”

As of Thursday evening, 7,000 BC Hydro customers on Vancouver Island were without power as a result of the wind storm.

Wind warnings are also in effect in many other areas of the province, extending into western Alberta.