Loud thunder and bright lightning lit up the skies over Metro Vancouver and parts of the South Coast of British Columbia on Friday morning. Environment Canada issued a yellow alert for a “severe thunderstorm” in specific areas, including Belcarra around 8 a.m. PT. The warning mentioned potential impact zones like Seymour Heights, Deep Cove, and Mount Seymour Park.
Lightning activity was also detected in regions like Vancouver, North Vancouver, and Burnaby. Environment Canada explained that severe thunderstorm warnings are issued when damaging hail, wind, or rain is expected. They advised immediate shelter during a thunderstorm to guard against flying debris and hail.
Meteorologist Brian Proctor from Environment Canada noted nocturnal thunderstorms over the North Shore and Vancouver Island mountains. He mentioned reports of hail and minor flooding in north Burnaby, adjacent to Vancouver. Thunderstorms are somewhat uncommon but not rare for the Vancouver-Squamish area, especially during the overnight hours.
Over a 12-hour period, approximately 1,600 lightning strikes were recorded across southern BC, including Vancouver Island, which was slightly higher than usual. The BC Wildfire Service suspects that four wildfires on Vancouver Island were triggered by lightning strikes. Proctor warned residents to stay vigilant for more thunderstorm activity, possibly continuing into the weekend.
In case of thunder, seeking indoor shelter was emphasized as a crucial safety measure by Proctor.