Environment Canada has issued a weather warning today, estimating high winds of up to 100 to 140 kilometers per hour today (March 2) and sustained winds of 70 to 100 km/hr.
The north part of the Island is expected to bear the worst of the storm, yet Environment Canada is warning residents that the high winds could spread to other areas quickly.
B.C. Ferries has already cancelled early sailings on most major routes, with severe weather notices in effect for sailings later this morning.
Several power outages have also occurred around Nanaimo, and are under investigation by B.C. Hydro.