Be prepared for possible coastal flooding this weekend: City of Vancouver

2 January 2026

VANCOUVER STORM SURGE — Storm surge at Jericho Pier. Photo: City of Vancouver

THE City of Vancouver noted on Friday that Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a Coastal Flooding Statement for the coastlines of Metro Vancouver, including Vancouver, due to high tides and storm surge expected this weekend. Shorelines along the Fraser River, the Burrard Inlet including English Bay and some adjacent low-lying areas may be impacted.

The highest risk for coastal flooding will occur on the morning of Sunday, January 4. Water levels are expected to be at their highest on Sunday at approximately 7:30 a.m. and are forecasted to be the highest coastal water levels experienced in Vancouver in the last four years.

Areas including Southlands, the South Vancouver Industrial Area, and Locarno Beach will be at an elevated flood risk this weekend. City crews will conduct regular inspections of tide gates and a drone will be used to assess the condition of the Southlands shoreline dike. City crews will activate pumps and install barricades as needed in the Southlands area and at Jericho Beach.

The seawall remains open at this time and will be closely monitored over the weekend.

Residents and businesses located in low-lying areas are strongly advised to monitor outdoor conditions for heavy rainfall and pooling water and are reminded to obey closure signage, avoid impacted shorelines and to not walk, bike, drive or swim through flood waters.

Use the City’s Hazard & Risk Explorer to check if you’re located within a floodplain area and learn how you can take action to mitigate impacts to yourself, your home or business including preparing an emergency kit and having an emergency plan.

Should monitoring indicate that floodwaters are at risk of reaching residential or business areas, the City will provide additional information through the Alertable app, vancouver.ca/alerts, and other communication channels.

Here’s how to stay up-to-date on important safety information this weekend: