Abbotsford Sets Rainfall Records as Lower Mainland Faces Deluge

Heavy rainfall marked the beginning of the weekend in British Columbia, with Abbotsford experiencing record-breaking precipitation on August 15, 2024. A staggering 55.8 mm of rain fell in the city, surpassing the previous record of 18 mm set in 1999 for the same date. Environment Canada had issued a rainfall warning in anticipation of the downpour, which affected many communities across the Lower Mainland.

The deluge did not spare other areas, with several communities also reporting significant rainfall totals. Notable records were set in the following locations:

– Squamish: 35.8 mm
– West Vancouver: 80.6 mm
– Pitt Meadows: 64.6 mm
– Maple Ridge: 87.4 mm
– Port Moody: 83.6 mm
– Langley: 55.8 mm
– White Rock: 49.8 mm
– Chilliwack: 49.8 mm

Among these, Coquitlam faced the most intense rainfall, with totals reaching an estimated 95.4 mm. This made August 15 the second rainiest day on record for the month, narrowly trailing behind another significant rainfall event that saw 41.6 mm recorded earlier in the month.

Impact on Wildfires and Weather Trends

Despite the heavy rain providing some relief, the BC Wildfire Service noted that the weather pattern was unusual for mid-August. The rainfall is expected to help mitigate the spread of wildfires, which have plagued the province this year. However, the situation remains precarious, as 55 new wildfires ignited in British Columbia within the past week, with eight occurring since Saturday alone.

Looking ahead, the forecast suggests a shift in weather conditions. The BC Wildfire Service warned that while the current low-pressure system will move toward the northwest, the southern regions are likely to experience rising temperatures and reduced precipitation. This transition could lead to drier forest conditions, heightening the risk of more significant wildfire activity.

“As the week progresses, most of the province will begin to experience a warming and drying trend that will increase the potential for more significant fire behaviour,” the BC Wildfire Service stated.

As of now, the total number of wildfires in British Columbia is approaching 1,000 for the year, with nearly a third occurring in the Prince George Fire Centre. This figure represents approximately 54 percent of the total fires recorded in the province in 2024 and 60 percent of the average annual count over the past decade.

With fluctuating weather patterns and rising temperatures, the province remains on high alert as it navigates the challenges posed by both heavy rainfall and wildfire risks. The impacts on local communities and ecosystems will remain closely monitored in the coming days.