[alex.w *//]

Rain warning issued for Metro Vancouver; Grouse Grind closed

METRO VANCOUVER -- Environment Canada issued a rainfall warning for Metro Vancouver on Monday morning, predicting the region would receive 50 mm by Tuesday morning.

The recent heavy rains also temporarily closed the Grouse Grind.

The trail will be reassessed over the next few days.

A low pressure centre near northern Vancouver island today was bringing rain to the south coast.

"Up to 50 mm of rain is forecast for Metro Vancouver with the highest amounts expected near the North Shore mountains," the warning said. "Rain will ease overnight as the low weakens and moves into the British Columbia interior."

Meanwhile, Vancouver city street crews are asking residents and businesses to clear storm drains (catch basins) to help keep water flowing from Vancouver streets during the heavy rainfall.


While water is flowing well as of noon Monday, according to a news release, crews are concerned the leaves that have fallen from neighbourhood trees will flow onto catch basin grates and reduce or stop the flow of water, which creates the potential for localized street and property flooding.


Street crews ask that people clear leaves from the edge of the road and grate areas and move them onto the boulevard because if wet leaves are tossed into the street, they create a traction hazard for vehicles and pedestrians.

The rain today and tonight will turn to showers on Tuesday before giving way to a mix of sun and clouds on Wednesday.


© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun