Nicks Weather

11:47 a.m. PST Friday 2 January 2026

Abnormal high tides combined with low pressure may produce minor/moderate coastal flooding.

Elevated water levels accompanied by strong winds and waves are expected, exceeding highest astronomical tides.

What:
Risk of coastal flooding due to storm surge coinciding with high tides.

When:
This weekend, with the highest risk of coastal flooding on Sunday.

Additional information:
The South Coast is entering a period of high astronomical tides as Earth reaches perihelion (Earth's closest point to the Sun). Also, a low pressure system will cross the region this weekend. This falling atmospheric pressure will help further elevate coastal water levels beyond predicted tides, thus increasing the risk of coastal flooding.

The exact track and timing of the low pressure centre remain uncertain at the moment. Wind strength will be contingent on the position of the low.

Moderate winds and storm surge can lead to washed up debris and erosion along coastal areas. Minor to moderate coastal flooding is likely along exposed shorelines, especially in the low-lying areas. There is a risk of locally significant flooding especially where onshore winds compound on the highest tides. Roads and walkways may be difficult to navigate due to flooding and/or debris, such as driftwood and rocks.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on X using #BCStorm.

For more information about the alerting program, please visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather/severeweather/weather-alerts/colour-coded-alerts.

In effect for:

• Vancouver Island Coastline from Bamfield to Clo-oose