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Meteorologists warn 'significant waves' are coming to Vancouver, Richmond and Delta

Waves are expected to exceed the highest astronomical tide.
Vancouver seawall king tide
The Vancouver Seawall, as pictured on Friday, Nov. 13 2020. The city has closed a section of the seawall as a safety precaution. Photo: @ParkBoard/X

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement warning of big waves expected around Metro Vancouver.

The statement, released at 1:16 p.m. on Wednesday, called for “elevated ocean water levels accompanied by significant waves are expected, likely exceeding highest astronomical tide."

Meteorologists are expecting the large waves on shorelines along the Strait of Georgia, including Stanley Park, University of British Columbia, Kitsilano, Richmond and Delta.

"Large waves due to strong northwest winds, storm surge and seasonably high tides have the potential to produce high water levels on Thursday morning,” says Environment Canada.

Coastal flooding is possible along exposed shorelines, especially in low-lying areas.

The waves will start on Thursday morning near high tide and are expected to last until mid-morning on Thursday. 

The City of Vancouver has closed a section of the seawall. 

“As a safety precaution, due to high winds and a king tide, sections of the Stanley Park seawall may temporarily close,” states the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation on X. 

Staff are asking people to please respect all closures.

“Give staff plenty of space to work and stay away from the edges of the seawall, particularly if accompanying children or animals,” states staff.