Ferry delays, flooded roads and vehicles mired in water and leaves are some of the most common issues for travellers today, Nov. 15.
With torrential rains followed by high winds, many have found getting around the city, or out of it, much more difficult than usual.
Anyone looking to leave Vancouver today will find it difficult if they're going by land or sea. Highways 1, 3, 5 and 99 are all blocked or damaged due to the floodwaters and mudslides following days of epic rainfall. That means Vancouver is essentially cut off from the rest of Canada for those who rely on roads.
Ferry sailings between the Island and Mainland are also facing issues, though they are still going. Sailings between Tsawwassen and Swatrz Bay are delayed by two hours, while sailings between Tsawwassen and Duke Point are cancelled for the day. Delays of nearly an hour are hitting the Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay route.
On the upside, while wet, Vancouver International Airport hasn't reported any locally related delays to operations.
Big thanks to all working outside at YVR & across the province today. No major operational issues here but we're monitoring potential impacts & there's some traffic diversions in the area so please give yourself time to get here today. Follow for updates. Stay safe, everybody!
— YVR (@yvrairport) November 15, 2021
Metro Vancouver highways are also being affected by flooding, with high water causing issues and closures throughout the region. Of particular note is Highway 99 through Richmond and Highway 7 basically anywhere west of Pitt Meadows.
Flooding has also hit the main Musqueam reserve, meaning may in the reserve bordering south Vancouver are fighting to keep their homes dry.
☔ Please be aware ☔ The main Musqueam reserve is experiencing flooding due to extreme rainfall within the last 24 hours 🌧
— xʷməθkʷəy̓əm | Musqueam Indian Band (@musqueam) November 15, 2021
‼ If possible, please avoid visiting the band office or surrounding areas until tomorrow, and use caution when driving in flooded areas. pic.twitter.com/viWbpebUSy
UBC has also had issues and closed Chancellor Boulevard at Hamber Road to eastbound traffic due to the water.
Flooding has also been reported at many other places in the city, including William Street and Clark Drive, West 16 and Courtenay streets, on Thurlow Street near See-em-ia Lane and Cornwall Avenue and Yew Street.
@CityofVancouver she has definitely cleared the surface drain, the sewer is clogged. Water starting to pour down driveways to houses. pic.twitter.com/I4BDE7Ia9b
— Gyasi Bourne (@gyasibourne) November 15, 2021
The high winds have also brought down trees throughout the city, but traffic delays appear to have been relatively short as crews clean up the messes.
