High Winds Cause Travel Disruptions
“We know you have important places to be,” stated BC Ferries in response to the ongoing weather challenges affecting travel in the region.
As a cold front crosses Vancouver Island, Environment Canada has issued a severe weather forecast predicting westerly wind gusts of up to 90 km/h in the Strait of Georgia. This has led to multiple sailings between Swartz Bay and Tsawwassen being cancelled or at risk of cancellation.
Specifically, the 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm sailings from Swartz Bay, along with the 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm sailings from Tsawwassen, have been cancelled. Additionally, the 3:00 pm sailing from Tsawwassen and the 4:00 pm sailing from Swartz Bay are also at risk of cancellation.
In light of these disruptions, BC Ferries has scheduled additional round-trip sailings for 8:00 pm from Swartz Bay and 10:00 pm from Tsawwassen to accommodate affected travelers.
Local authorities are also warning residents to prepare for potential power outages and damage to roofs, fences, and trees due to the strong winds. Snow is also a concern, with 5 to 10 cm possible in high elevations on Vancouver Island.
Travelers are advised to check the BC Ferries website for real-time updates and to make reservations in advance, especially as all vehicle travel departing Horseshoe Bay must be booked and paid for up to 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the weather’s impact on local infrastructure and services. Residents are encouraged to stay informed as conditions evolve.
