Heavy rain to drench south coast, more snow for Okanagan

Residents on B.C.'s south coast may have to make a quick change from snowshoes to hip waders in the coming days.

The B.C. River Forecast Centre has issued a high stream flow advisory for the entire region, from Vancouver Island and Howe Sound to the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.

It's projected 150 millimetres, or six inches, of rain could drench Howe Sound and the Fraser Valley before Thursday morning. About 100 millimetres is expected overMetro Vancouver.

Slightly less rain is due over southern and eastern Vancouver Island, but experts say the rain combined with melting snow will cause a rapid rise in area river levels and possible flooding in low-lying areas.

Despite downpours expected in much of the province, the Central Okanagan, including Kelowna and Penticton, is expecting more snow.

Environment Canada issued a snowfall warning Tuesday morning for the region, warning residents to expect 10 to 30 cm ahead of a warm front, which isexpected to bring rain by Tuesday night.

The continuing presence of snow, especially along side streetsin the Lower Mainland, also meant that classes were cancelled for a second consecutiveday for some students.

All public elementary schools in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows were closed because young children could not navigate the snow-covered sidewalks around the schools

All secondary schools in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows were open.

In North Vancouver, Carisbrooke Elementary and Upper Lynne Elementary schools were also closed while in Surrey bus service for students in wheelchairs was suspended.