Halloween drenching for much of British Columbia amid wind and rainfall warnings

Many trick-or-treaters in British Columbia braved wind and rain as much of the central province, parts of the south and central coasts, and Vancouver Island were under warnings from Environment Canada.

The rainfall warning spanned Metro Vancouver north of the Fraser River as well as Howe Sound and the lower Sunshine Coast, with 50 to 80 millimetres of rain expected Friday with the arrival of a moisture-laden system.

The rain was expected to intensify in the afternoon before easing into showers around 9 p.m.

A rainfall warning was also in effect for inland parts of the north coast, including the Kitimat and Terrace areas, which expected 45 to 55 millimetres of rain.

A wind warning for the central coast and northern Vancouver Island, meanwhile, predicted the “intense” front will bring gusts up to 110 km/h.

Environment Canada said much of the central Interior stretching from south of Williams Lake to north of Prince George would see strong winds with the potential for gusts at speeds of 90 km/h before conditions ease later Friday.

Winds over the Sunshine Coast and eastern Vancouver Island were predicted to hit about 70 km/h with gusts up to 90 km/h over exposed coastal sections.

The weather office said strong winds may bring down trees weakened by summer drought and residents should be prepared for possible power outages.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 31, 2025.