Christmas Day storm: BC Ferries cancels sailings, rain and wind warnings issued [Video]

B.C.’s South Coast residents are bracing for a storm to sweep onshore on Christmas Day.

Rainfall warnings have been issued for Metro Vancouver and Howe Sound with rain expected to start around midday on Dec. 25.

During the afternoon of Christmas Day, the weather system will bring heavy rain. Over higher terrain, above 300 metres in elevation, a brief period of wet snow may result in slippery conditions, Environment Canada said.

Wind warnings have also been issued for these areas, including the Sunshine Coast and eastern Vancouver Island.

Global BC meteorologist Mark Madryga said very strong winds and rain are expected to hit the region.

In Metro Vancouver, southeast winds will likely gust to 80 km/h, especially near the Strait of Georgia, by late morning and in the afternoon and evening, Madryga added.

Early on Boxing Day, a low-pressure system will approach southern Vancouver Island but Madryga said there is …