Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for Metro Vancouver, Victoria, east Vancouver Island, the Southern Gulf Islands, Howe Sound, and the Sunshine Coast.

According to the weather service, strong winds, thunderstorms, heavy downpours and gusty winds are expected, starting Saturday evening and continuing into early Sunday morning.

“Strong southerly winds are expected to precede thunderstorm activity late in the evening hours,” the statement says.

“Thunderstorms are expected to follow, bringing periods of heavy showers and the potential for gusty winds after midnight.”

Residents are advised to be prepared for impacts of the storm.

“Strong winds may cause tree branches to break and localized power outages,” the statement says.

“Reduced visibility in heavy downpours and water pooling on the roads.”

Environment Canada says Oregon and the Washington coast will also be affected.

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