B.C. weather: Wind, rain and snow alerts issued as low pressure system moves in from Alaska

Environment Canada has released a series of special weather statements, public weather alerts and weather warnings across B.C. as an intense low pressure system moves into the centre of the province from Alaska.

The weather agency began issuing its various alerts at around 5 a.m. on Monday.

The special weather statement is warning of strong and gusty southwesterly winds that are expected to hit Metro Vancouver and the southern Gulf Islands on Monday night — being particularly strong near the Strait of Georgia.

A rainfall warning is also in effect for the Fraser Valley — east to Hope — with more than 50 mm forecast to fall, starting Monday morning and carrying on throughout the night. Areas of localized flooding and water pooling on roads are expected.

Meanwhile, a snowfall storm warning has been issued for the Coquihalla Highway from Hope to Merritt, with snowfall of 25 to 30 cm expected near the summit by Tuesday morning. Snow is expected to starting falling by noon on Monday.