A storm prepares to blow in; a Ferry prepares to depart early

The Northern Expedition is going to get ahead of the approaching
storm today, with an early departure from Haida Gwaii

As a Pacific weather system begins to make it's approach towards Haida Gwaii and then the North Coast, BC Ferries is being a little proactive with its sailing schedule, advising that today's 10 PM departure of the Northern Expedition from Skidegate is being moved up to 8 PM.

With the shift in schedule the Ferry will arrive in Prince Rupert at 6 AM on Friday morning.

A schedule change is now in effect for today's sailing of the Northern Expedition

The Environment Canada Forecast for Haida Gwaii and the North Coast indicates that Rain will begin late this evening, with the winds increasing to 80 km/h over exposed coastal sections overnight.

The Wind and rain remain with us for much of Friday, with the winds expected to diminish through Friday afternoon.

A Satellite image from Environment Canada shows the extent of the
weather system making its way to Haida Gwaii and the North Coast

Marine Weather Warnings are in effect for all off shore areas
of the North Coast and Haida Gwaii

Gale Warnings have been issued for marine areas off both Haida Gwaii and the North Coast with winds expected to increase to south 45 knots near midnight, with seas of 5 metres expected at that time as well.

Depending on  how long the weather system may linger on the North Coast, BC Ferries may have further Service Notices in place over the weekend, you can find the latest information from their website  or twitter feed.

For more items related to BC Ferries see our archive page here, notes on past weather events can be found on our Weather archive.