While the Metro Vancouver forecast is calling for plenty of rain this weekend, Environment Canada is predicting that other parts of the province will a great deal of snowfall.
Currently, the department is calling for a hazardous snowstorm on the Coquihalla highway tonight and a number of other highways. Specifically, they have a winter storm warning in effect for the Trans-Canada Highway, Highway 3 - Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass as well as the Okanagan Connector.
The alert notes that a strong Pacific frontal system continues to hammer the interior highway passes with heavy snow. Further, heavy snow is expected to continue today, tonight, and into Saturday. Additional snowfall amounts of 20 to 60 cm can be expected by Saturday afternoon.
Due to the hazardous conditions, drivers should prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow, and therefore it is advised to stay alert at all times.
Some good advice here: “Stay home if you don’t have to travel”. The heavy snow continues most of today so just don’t. #BCStorm https://t.co/wQlK0hmK1x
— Matt MacDonald (@meteo_matt) December 20, 2019
It is the responsibility of the operator of a vehicle in B.C. to understand the conditions on roads they regularly drive and equip their vehicle for those conditions. As such, anyone driving on one of these highways should ensure that they have legal winter tires. Mountain snowflake tires offer better traction on snow and ice.
Passenger vehicles not equipped with winter tires are subject to a $121 fine, while commercial vehicles not carrying chains can get slapped with a fine of $196. In addition, commercial vehicles bypassing an active chain up area are subject to a fine of $598. Read more about winter tires here.
