British Columbia’s northern coast was inundated by an atmospheric river over the Thanksgiving long weekend, with authorities warning of heavy downpours and possible flooding.

A rain warning is in effect for inland sections of the North Coast, including Terrace and Kitimat, where Environment and Climate Change Canada says “the ground, already near saturation, has little capacity to absorb further rain.” .

The federal weather agency expects precipitation to total about 60 millimeters in Terrace and up to 100 millimeters in Kitimat, before the heavy rains ease Sunday evening or Monday morning.

“Heavy downpours can cause flash flooding and accumulation of water on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Rapidly rising rivers and streams can carry away bridges, culverts, buildings and people. Landslides may occur in vulnerable areas such as steep slopes,” the North Coast alert states.

“Do not approach water sources near rivers, streams and culverts. »

To the south, a warning is also in place for the central coast, with the ECCC estimating 100 millimeters of rain will fall by Monday morning.

“Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible. Heavy downpours may cause flash flooding and accumulation of water on roads,” the alert states.

A high flow advisory is in effect for the north and central coasts and northern Vancouver Island, and a flood watch has been issued for the Kitimat and Kemano rivers.

The province’s River Forecast Center says river water levels are already high across the region after weeks of rain, exacerbating the effects of this weekend’s storm on rivers.