'Extreme weather': Non-essential travel not recommended as winter storm approaches southern Interior | iNFOnews | Thompson-Okanagan's News Source
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'Extreme weather': Non-essential travel not recommended as winter storm approaches southern Interior

Environment Canada issued a snowfall and winter storm warning for areas of B.C., and is encouraging drivers to postpone non-essential travel.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Government of B.C.

An approaching winter storm has Environment Canada upgrading storm watches to warnings today as the slow moving weather system is expected to include lots of snow.

An approaching Pacific storm is expected to bring hazardous winter conditions with the potential of significant snowfall and freezing rain starting tonight, Dec. 21, through to Thursday, according to the weather office.

Snowfall amounts will vary widely, between 25 and 40 centimetres for the Coquihalla Highway from Merritt to Hope, and from 10 to 20 cm for Highway 3.

Environment Canada encourages drivers to consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve, as highways and roadways will become icy and hazardous.

Snowfall from the storm is also expected for the Trans-Canada Highway from Eagle Pass to Rogers Pass, West Columbia, North Columbia and Kinbasket regions.

Between 15 to 25 cm of snow is anticipated in the Rogers Pass, 25 to 35 cm of snow is expected over western sections near Malakwa, and 20 to 30 cm for Kinbasket and North Columbia.

Forecasters said light snow will begin this evening and intensify overnight and into tomorrow. Heavy snow is expected to stop briefly tomorrow afternoon and intensify in the evening before tapering to flurries Thursday morning.

A snowfall warning is also in effect for the North Okanagan including Vernon, with 10 cm of snow expected tonight.

"We are once again facing the potential for extreme weather in our province," Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth said in a media release issued today. "It is imperative that we all watch the weather carefully and look out for those who are most vulnerable."

READ MORE: iN VIDEO: Coquihalla Highway reopens to essential commercial traffic today

The B.C. government is reminding drivers to plan ahead and drive according to weather and road conditions if they have to travel during the winter storm.

"I encourage everybody to travel only if necessary, this winter to keep each other safe and keep roads open, so essential goods can be delivered to communities," Minister of Transportation Rob Fleming said in the release. "Road conditions can change quickly. If you must travel, check the weather and plan routes before you leave to be as prepared as possible."

Before heading out, drivers are reminded to ensure they are properly prepared for the wintery conditions by bringing warm clothing, having a full tank of fuel, windshield scraper and snow brush, water, snacks and a first-aid kit in the vehicle.

To view all snowfall and winter storm warnings, go to Environment Canada's web page here.

For the latest on highway conditions go to Drive B.C. here.


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