Awesome Tofino Storm Watching

Near-record rain and strong winds from a subtropical storm system brings remarkable seas to Tofino and Ucluelet

The rain and wind storms that battered Vancouver Island the second week of December caused flooding, power outages and downed trees. The Comox Valley and Alberni Valley were hit the hardest on November 8 and 9.

Flooding in Courtenay closed streets and over 200 millimetres of rain above the Comox Valley reservoir lead to a controlled release. Roads and highways from Fanny Bay to Courtenay, parts of the Inland Highway and Port Alberni were flooded prompting temporary closures. After more than 190 millimetres of rain fell on the area in less than 72 hours, Highway 4 to Tofino was closed because of flooding.

Meanwhile, Long Beach Lodge Resort was closed for its annual maintenance, refit and revitalization. A small army of tradesmen, carpenters, designers and cleaning staff swarmed the resort, leaving nary a carpet unturned, corner unswept or worn surface untouched.

Long Beach Lodge Resort executive chef Ian Riddick seized the opportunity to venture into the stormy weather, camera in hand, and onto the Pacific Trail in Ucluelet on Tuesday.

The images Ian captured of the raging ocean are remarkable. Enjoy!

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