ICBC claims soar following atmospheric river

More than a week following the deadly atmospheric river that brought heavy rain to B.C.’s South Coast, the number of ICBC claims for flood damage has climbed.

Last week, the public insurer said it had received 80 claims. In an update on Tuesday morning, it tells 1130 NewsRadio it received 365 claims.

ICBC isn’t sure how much the payouts will cost.

“A vehicle damaged by rising water is covered with optional insurance coverage. Depending on the circumstances involved, comprehensive, specified perils or collision coverage may apply.”

During the record-breaking atmospheric river in 2021, ICBC says it had roughly 2,100 claims.

The storm lasted three days leading to oversaturated grounds, flooded roads, and the deaths of two people.

1130 NewsRadio Meteorologist Michael Kuss says Coquitlam led the way with 256 millimeters.

“West Vancouver also saw over 200 millimeters, even downtown Vancouver topping 175 millimeters of precipitation over three steady days,” added Kuss. “The heaviest rain, the longest lasting rain, of course, was on Saturday. Twelve new daily records for rainfall around the province, including West Vancouver — 134.6 mm, breaking the old record of 34 mm. YVR had 67 mm, a new one. New records in Pitt Meadows, White Rock, Langley, Chilliwack, Agassiz, Abbotsford — all new daily rainfall records for October 19.”

-With files from Srushti Gangdev and Charlie Carey

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