VANCOUVER -- Tuesday's heavy rainfall has prompted officials with the River Forecast Centre to issue a high streamflow advisory, meaning rivers and streams could rise rapidly in some areas.
Public Safety Minister John van Dongen said the province will provide sandbags and other resources wherever needed.
But he said municipalities are responsible for having their own emergency programs in place to deal with any flooding.
"The Provincial Emergency (Preparedness) people are involved in conference calls with municipalities and the River Forecast Centre, sharing their most up-to-date information," he said.
Environment Canada said rain is expected to pelt the south coast for most of the week with up to 150 millimetres in the next 48 hours, on the heels of a near-record snowfall last month.
The heavier-than-usual winter snowfall in B.C. has led to at least 13 deaths.
Larger rivers, such as the Chilliwack, Stave, Coquitlam and Seymour will peak Thursday and aren't expected to reach flood stage.
The Nooksack River, in Washington State just south of the B.C. border, is under a flood watch and is expected to exceed flood stage by Thursday.
The centre also said there is a possibility for localized flooding on south and east Vancouver Island from Parksville to Victoria
A high streamflow advisory means rivers are expected to rise rapidly, but the River Forecast Centre said no major flooding is expected and minor flooding in low-lying areas is possible.
A flood watch means the river levels are rising and will approach or may exceed its banks.
