If you thought the worst of winter was over in Metro Vancouver, you are in for a surprise this weekend.
Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the region that is expected to reach the south coast on Saturday (Jan. 1) that includes a mix of snow, rain and wind.
Snowfall is expected to begin Saturday afternoon or evening and temperatures will begin to rise as warm air moves into the region from the ocean. There is potential for 2 to 10 cm of snowfall accumulation.
On Sunday morning, the snow is forecast to change to rain in Metro Vancouver with a potential for 10 to 40 mm of rainfall. However, the exact amount of precipitation is unknown as it depends on when the snow turns into rain.
Additionally, there is a risk of freezing rain as "warm air overrides the cold air lurking near the surface overnight Saturday into Sunday."
Strong winds of 40 km/h gusting to 70 km/h will also develop early Sunday, possibly gusting up to 90 km/h near the Strait of Georgia.
Road conditions may quickly deteriorate as snow transitions to rain and the freezing rain may also make surfaces icy and slippery. Snowmelt from the anticipated warming and additional rainfall may cause water pooling on roads and local flooding, too.
Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions and take extra care when walking or driving in affected areas.
