Environment Canada has this morning issued a rainfall warning for the Elk Valley as well as Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass beginning tonight through to Thursday morning (Dec. 7).

Total rainfall expected is between 75 to 100 mm, as an atmospheric river setting up over the B.C. South Coast today will bring heavy rain over parts of the Kootenays.

Heavy rain over highway 3 – Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass and Elk Valley near Fernie will begin early this evening. Rain will continue through Thursday morning as a frontal system stalls over the region, Environment Canada forecasts.

While heavy rain is anticipated in the Elk Valley and Kootenay Pass, about 15 cm of snow is forecast between Eagle Pass and Rogers Pass, including Kootenay National Park. Up to 25 cm of snowfall is expected over higher terrain such as Rogers Pass and Yoho Park.

There is a 60% chance of flurries in other areas of the region, including Kimberley/Cranbook and the Columbia Valley.

Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.

Watch for possible washouts near rivers, creeks and culverts. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.

e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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