Be Prepared: Wind Warning in Effect City of Victoria

A wind warning is in effect for Victoria on Wednesday, December 25. Gusts of up to 100 km/h are expected. 

As a precaution, the following areas will be closed for safety. Please follow posted signage and do not enter closed areas.

• Beach access to Gonzales Park 
• Lower pathway at Ross Bay beach 
• Shoreline pathway at Holland Point 

Strong wind can result in falling tree branches and local power outages. Crews are on standby to address fallen trees, branches and other storm-related hazards. 

Check Environment Canada for weather updates and alerts. 

Here’s what you can do:

• Avoid parking vehicles under trees or hydro wires during stormy weather.
• Secure loose items around your home such as holiday decorations, garbage cans, patio furniture, retractable canopies, ladders, building materials, banners and awnings.
• Be prepared for power outages. Make sure to charge your cell phone and have flashlights, blankets, a portable radio and spare batteries on hand. 
• Move away from the shoreline if you see signs of coastal flooding
• Don’t drive through flood waters

Know your emergency contact numbers

• Downed power line – call 911.
• Power outage – call BC Hydro at 1.888.POWERON / 1.888.769.3766. View BC Hydro's information on power outages.
• Fallen branches or trees – call the City’s Parks department at 250.361.0600. If calling on weekends, or weekdays before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m., call 250.361.0400. 

Prepare Your Emergency Kits 

During wet, windier months, power outages due to fallen trees or high winds are more likely. Residents should be prepared and have their emergency kits ready. For information on what to include in your emergency kits, go to VictoriaReady.ca.